$50 on the Foot

A colleague reminded me of an activity that is featured in my first book, Presentation Wizardry, (find out more at www.wizbangers.ca).

The idea behind the activity is that it is a challenge to a volunteer.

Magic Ball
Try this trick: - Crush a piece of paper or foil into a small ball.- Tell the group the paper has magic powers.- Ask a volunteer to stand sideways against a wall with his shoulder and matching foot touching the wall.- Place the magic ball on his foot that is not against the wall.- Ask him to raise that foot.- He won't be able to do it.- Make the point that the magic ball and its power have paralyzed the volunteer.
How I use this:
There are many ways to use this trick to make a key learning point. Here is one. When I roll the ball up I talk about how it represents perfectionism. I talk a bit about it and ask if anyone can define it. The person who gives the definition becomes my volunteer. When I place the ball on his foot I indicate how heavy it is and how glad I am to give it to someone else. As he tries to lift his foot he finds that he can't. I make the point that perfectionism becomes a paralyzing factor in moving forward or achieving success.

Then put a $50 bill on the foot that is furthest away from the wall and challenge the person to lift that foot up. Say, "If you can lift that foot while you keep your shoulder and other foot touching the wall, you can have the money."

Your volunteer will try, but it is nigh on impossible to do. In order to lift the foot with the money on it up even a smidge, you have to be able to lean in the opposite direction. As you are jammed side on into a wall, there is nowhere to lean. This is a centre of gravity activity.

Now the real fun comes when you figure out what the money can represent. Or instead of money, put a different object on their foot. Perhaps a credit card, a wedding ring, or a small paper with a word written on it that has been crumpled up.

First make sure you know how to do the trick, then think about it a bit, then get down to trying it. You don't want to lose your $50 so work up to that one.

Good luck.
Thanks to Eric for this idea.