Recess had transformed into an adventurous quest as our team endeavored to unlock the entrance to a mystical realm. Armed with four distinct toys, each holding a vital piece of the code, we were engrossed in a thrilling challenge. As the designated “math person,” one teammate eagerly took on the task of combining mathematics with constructing a Lego structure, a task squarely in his wheelhouse.

 Immersed in his project, he was acutely aware of the bustling activity around him. It appeared that the rest of the team would complete their tasks before he made significant progress. The complexity of his challenge was mounting, and his focus began to wane. Feeling sidelined by the group’s excitement, he contemplated switching tasks to contribute more visibly and regain a sense of involvement.

 Soon, a revelation struck—he wasn’t alone in his frustrations. Each member felt bogged down, perceiving themselves as the sole struggler amid a sea of success. This was a mirage; the reality was that everyone was grappling with their own challenges. Realizing this, we shifted our approach, collaborating on the more demanding tasks, which fostered a renewed sense of unity and progress. In the nick of time, our combined efforts paid off—we unlocked the door and stepped into the enchanting realm that awaited us.

 This experience mirrors frequent scenarios in both personal and professional environments where individuals feel isolated in their struggles. The frustration intensifies when it seems others are excelling effortlessly, which can lead to a desire to disengage and feelings of resentment. However, it’s essential to recognize that these perceptions are often skewed by our internal narratives.

 Developing emotional intelligence is crucial; it enables us to understand that stress and frustration are often self-induced. Acknowledging this helps us maintain independence and resilience in the face of challenges. Furthermore, increasing our awareness of others’ emotions allows us to see that they, too, might be silently struggling.

 Effective communication about our challenges can illuminate shared difficulties, fostering a supportive environment. Sometimes, realizing that others are also in need can shift our perspective from feeling excluded to being proactive supporters. Ultimately, the sensation of being left out on the playground is within our control to change, empowering us to transform perceptions and enhance collective success.

Evil wizards and their paranoia! We were on a stealth mission to infiltrate the library of one such sorcerer to secure the coveted Philosopher’s Stone, but alas, the wizard had enchanted his magic tome with a tenacious sticking spell. The book was immovable, anchored to its stand as if bound by iron chains. Without the ability to transport the book, we were forced to memorize and relay the ancient symbols back and forth—a far cry from the straightforward task it would have been with our usual tools. Typically, a simple scroll would suffice for copying the arcane characters, but our apprentice had forgotten it back at our castle.

 What should have been a routine heist spiraled into a monumental challenge. Stealing magical artifacts from malevolent forces was perilous enough, but the fear of being caught by an evil wizard heightened the stakes immeasurably. As the minutes slipped by, our mental fatigue set in, eroding our ability to communicate and retain the intricate shapes of the spell.

 Ultimately, our perseverance paid off. We deciphered just enough of the spell to conjure the Philosopher’s Stone and thwart another dark reign. This ordeal underscored a crucial lesson akin to our professional lives: we grow accustomed to our tools—software, a favored keyboard, or our morning routines—which streamline our productivity. However, slight disruptions can transform manageable tasks into daunting ordeals as reliance turns into vulnerability. Stress and frustration mount, potentially straining team dynamics and turning minor setbacks into significant obstacles.

This calls for resilience and adaptability in our skill set. We must continuously enhance our toolbox with alternative strategies and backup plans. For instance, developing a robust method to describe and understand symbols in spell translation could safeguard against future slip-ups by forgetful apprentices. This approach ensures that even when our preferred tools fail us, our mission does not falter.

We were hot on the heels of the notorious mastermind, armed with intelligence that a secret passageway in this seemingly innocuous office led straight to the heart of the villain’s lair. As we stealthily infiltrated the building and began our search, the entire system clamped down in a sudden lockdown. We were trapped—surely the work of a double agent within our ranks. Now, we had to outsmart the mastermind’s elaborate traps and navigate the treachery lurking amongst us.

 Despite the betrayal, our seasoned instincts kicked in. We swiftly located and breached a concealed room, gaining access to a vault brimming with critical documents that unveiled the full scope of the villainous plot. But our triumph was short-lived. We discovered a ticking bomb set to obliterate everything. We scrambled for the reset button with only moments to act—our apparent salvation.

 Just as one of us stretched out a hand to press it, the other saw a discreet note addressed to the henchmen: the wiring was deliberately reversed to ensnare anyone daring enough to thwart the plan. A near-fatal trap avoided by a hair’s breadth! Armed with this crucial insight, we ingeniously circumvented the boobytrap, ensuring our escape and the failure of the villain’s last-ditch defense.

 This harrowing adventure reinforced a critical lesson: experience, while invaluable, can blind us to evolving threats and novel solutions. In our personal and professional lives, circumstances continually shift—presenting new challenges and opportunities. By remaining vigilant and open to fresh information, we enhance our resilience and capacity for growth and, sometimes, narrowly dodge disaster. This adventure served as a stark reminder: always read the entire message, especially when it might be the difference between life and explosive demise.

Trapped in a military bunker with aliens looming, our team of three had to navigate a tension-filled escape. Despite the high stakes, our camaraderie and strategic thinking shone through. We collaborated seamlessly on complex challenges and splitting tasks to maximize efficiency. The pressure escalated as we inched toward the control room to override the security system. One teammate’s patience frayed, yet our group maintained empathy and support, understanding the strain of our harrowing escape attempt.

 With just 10 minutes to spare before the aliens’ return, we encountered a baffling clue: a voltage sign inside a cage, which bizarrely appeared upside down through a periscope we discovered. This puzzle stumped us. Urgently rotating turns, we scrutinized the sign, searching for any discrepancies. Time was slipping away when a keen observation of a slight color variation in some letters led to a breakthrough. Reluctantly, we sought a clue from the game master, which revealed we needed to spot the differences between the signs to unlock the final door.

 This escape taught us profound lessons. Primarily, expectations can blind us to other possibilities. We fixated on the sign’s orientation, missing subtle yet crucial differences. This experience underscored the importance of maintaining an open mind, leveraging diverse perspectives within the team, and recognizing when to seek external assistance. Our escape tested our resilience and deepened our understanding of teamwork and perception.

In the shadowy recesses of an undisclosed European enclave, we were ensnared in the allure of beta-testing a newly created escape room. This adventure sought to unravel the mysteries of its intricate puzzles and technological marvels, tailored for English-speaking escapees.

 Within this immersive realm, reminiscent of past escapades, we were thrust into a divide at the outset, one ensnared within the confines of a forbidding cage, not even as big as a typical jail cell. Traditionally, our singular mission would be liberation, prioritizing the release of the captive comrade over all else. Yet, as the narrative unfolded, the participant initially confined to the cage – their identity veiled to preserve anonymity (and momentary stupidity) – embarked on a swift survey of their incarceration. Failing to uncover a clue within, their focus shifted outward, pleading with the other partner to help release them.

 Minutes stretched into eternity as attempts to unlock the cage ensued until a glitch in one of the puzzles prompted the game master’s intervention, resetting the scene. Amidst the shuffle, roles reversed, granting the previously free escapee a chance to scour their cell. In a breathtaking revelation, a map materialized, hidden within the cell, paving the swift path to emancipation. Of course, there was a bit of teasing since the previous cage inhabitant missed a pretty obvious clue.

 From this immersive odyssey, a profound truth emerged, echoing through the chambers of the escape room and beyond the imperative of introspection. The erstwhile prisoner’s journey is a potent reminder to seek answers within rather than casting blame or seeking salvation externally. Let this tale of confinement and liberation serve as a call to action, beckoning all who feel ensnared by life’s trials to introspect and reclaim agency. In the shadows of our own captivity, may we find the keys to unlock our boundless potential.

The following is a guest blog submitted by Stephanie Farlow.

Imagine it—you’ve entered a dark room with a light bulb flickering somewhere in the distance. To your left is a TV/VCR combo that, in its day, was the height of technology. It is one of many rooms in this homicidal adventure. You must survive to save the world from a computer virus that will end technology as we know it, then steal from a pirate as the ultimate prize.

Can you accomplish all this on your own? Would you even want to? Is it better with others, a.k.a. a group – or best with a team?

Escape rooms offer a thrilling adventure, a unique opportunity to delve into the dynamics of a team within a fun, safe, and engaging environment. It’s a chance to witness our reactions under pressure. While escape rooms are primarily for entertainment and a way to escape from the day-to-day happenings of our lives (pun intended), some puzzles are challenging. They can elicit stress reactions in us (some more than others – but that’s a topic for another blog ). Escape rooms provide an opportunity to be aware of our reactions and discuss them in a post-adventure chat with our trusted team members.

The word “team” is often overused, diluting its meaning and importance. I cringe when I hear organizational clients constantly use “team” when we all know it’s really a group. What’s the difference, you ask?

In my experience having worked in organizations and being a consultant in the organizational and talent development space, a team encompasses the following critical elements:

1. Operating with a growth mindset,
2. Genuine care and concern amongst the members and feeling safe with them, and
3. Common goal(s) and no hidden agendas.

 In a singular afternoon, the three of us had to save the world twice – and be rewarded for it! We had to embody these three elements to truly be a team and leverage one another’s cognitive skills to solve those puzzles! There’s no way we could have accomplished these tasks on our own – with plenty of time to spare. The success we achieved as a team in the escape room underscored the importance of teamwork and the critical elements that make it successful.

What does “team” mean to you? What are the critical elements you need to be a successful team member? How can you be an effective team leader who creates this team “feel”? I invite you to reflect on these questions and share your insights as we delve deeper into the importance of teamwork and the critical elements that make it successful.

​In the heart of an enigmatic European landscape, we embarked on a thrilling escape from a post-apocalyptic vault, daring to rescue humanity (you owe us one!). Despite the company’s booking stipulating a minimum of three participants, we defiantly signed up as a duo, gambling on the chance they might accommodate us upon arrival.

 Upon entering, our game master embarked on an impassioned soliloquy, her emotions palpable as she recounted her own harrowing experience attempting the same challenge with just two players. Despite her heartfelt plea for reconsideration, we remained resolute in our decision.

 Undeterred, we plunged into the depths of the adventure, braving the perils of the vault, toppling malevolent robots, and navigating a treacherous maze of sewers (thankfully devoid of their characteristic stench). Yet, amidst the adrenaline-fueled triumphs, frustrations arose as our game master faltered in her role, inadvertently disrupting our progress with untimely hints.

 Nevertheless, the experience proved enlightening, underscoring the profound truth that individual perspectives can drastically shape shared encounters. We departed with newfound wisdom, emphasizing the importance of forging our own paths and refraining from allowing our own or others’ setbacks to dictate our journey. Let this escapade serve as a testament: perseverance prevails in the pursuit of our ambitions.

The following is a guest blog written by Stephanie Hubka of ProtosLearning.com

The room was pitch black; my flashlight had mysteriously turned off when I needed it the most. From behind me, a voice growled, “You’ll never get out in time.” I rolled my eyes and fumbled toward the doorway, aware of how my heart had settled into a steady, measured rhythm. “That’s what you think,” I muttered. Despite the dark, success was the only option I could see.

Far from my typical days as an instructional designer, I found myself voluntarily trapped in the home of a notorious butcher in a desperate attempt to confirm his identity before he struck again—and if he did, it could be at my expense. Partnered with two of my brilliant friends turned investigators, we had just 60 minutes to solve puzzle after puzzle, each one bringing us closer to the escape we desperately wanted.

As we entered the butcher’s home, we shared a singular focus, but with no time to strategize, I wondered how I might best contribute to our work. It quickly became clear that if we were to outwit the butcher, I needed to know when to lead and when to follow. It was tempting to rush in and begin moving items around, searching for patterns or clues in a way that made sense to me. If I were alone in the room, that strategy might have been successful, but with two team members bringing their own skills to the task, it became essential that we find ways to build on each other’s successes. When one person worked on a puzzle, I focused my attention elsewhere to avoid duplicating efforts, and we gave each other space to make mistakes and reach conclusions as experts in the tasks we tackled. When someone had a breakthrough, I was quick to learn about it and think of ways it might impact my work—and when I had a breakthrough, I readily shared that information so we could move forward as a team. Each of us had a few celebratory moments while searching for the butcher’s identity, all because we were willing to lead where we could and follow when someone else more clearly saw the path in front of us.

There was much to see, do, and process while locked in the butcher’s house. It would have been easy to let our dwindling time take up valuable space in my brain. Instead, I focused on my experience instead of the clock. It’s so easy to get distracted when the pressure starts to build; our internal voices can be the first to plant the seeds of doubt. I was only a little surprised to hear an external voice echo the same doubt I was trying to bury when I was alone in a dark room. At that moment, I had two choices: I could give into the fear or leverage my confidence. The latter helped me recenter, focus, and return to contributing to the challenges we faced. The benefits were instantly noticeable when I did: my heart rate lowered, my senses sharpened, and my brain felt sharp instead of cloudy. When our team ultimately found success and escaped what would have been a gruesome demise, we still had time on the clock. All of us found the confidence we needed to get the job done.

Fortunately, I don’t battle against murderous butchers regularly, but I discovered that thriving in that environment isn’t as different from thriving at work as I might have thought. Escape rooms are an incredible way to test your boundaries, strengthen your skills, and identify new talents. They can also provide valuable lessons long after the final clue is deciphered. When I experience contentious conversations or find myself up against challenging deadlines, I take time to center, focus, prioritize, and let others take the lead when they have more information than I do. I’m always amazed by how much easier, more productive, and more fun work is when I apply those key takeaways in the real world.

How do you decide when to lead or when to follow? What techniques are used to center yourself when internal or external voices threaten your focus? You never know when the answer to these questions might save your workday or life from a notorious butcher!

As we penetrated deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of the mansion, the secret gallery whispered its secrets from the shadows. Our sources had been adamant: the magical stones of untold power lay within these ancient walls. Time was not our ally; it raced against us with the relentless tick of a clock in an empty room.

Navigating through the mansion was like wading through the cluttered mind of an eccentric genius – a chaotic amalgam of brilliance and madness. Every room was a trove of mysteries, each artifact a potential clue. The omnipresent question haunted us: were we mere steps away from our goal, or did an endless maze of deception lie ahead?

In one dimly lit corner, a faint outline suggested a hidden door. Was this a gateway to our prize, or just another intricate ruse of the mansion’s enigmatic creator? Doubt and anticipation waged war in our minds, a maelstrom clouding our focus. Then, an alcove unveiled itself as if by fate, a beacon of hope in our dimming quest. It was a pivotal moment, realigning our path with the stones’ elusive trail. To our surprise, we were much further along than we had dared to hope. Finally, with the stones securely in our grasp and the malevolent mansion receding into the night, a wave of relief enveloped us. The ordeal was over, and we escaped just in the nick of time.

This escape room adventure mirrors the dual nature of anticipation. When we anticipate joyous events – like a long-awaited vacation or a celebration – it fills us with energy and positive emotions, casting aside anxiety and stress. But the anticipation of less desirable outcomes – be it a daunting job interview or a challenging social event – can have the opposite effect, amplifying our stress and potentially clouding our judgment.

Often, we find ourselves fixated on the worst-case scenarios, especially in situations shrouded in uncertainty. This negative anticipation can spiral, potentially manifesting the very outcomes we fear most. It’s a psychological trap, one that can ensnare even the most rational minds. However, there’s a way out of this mental labyrinth. Recognizing and confronting these negative anticipation patterns, we can anchor ourselves in the present moment. Here, in the now, we can reshape our emotions and expectations. Like finding our way through the enigmatic mansion, we can navigate our minds away from the shadows of dread and towards a brighter, more hopeful perspective.

Ultimately, our journey through the escape room adventure – much like our journey through life’s uncertainties – teaches us a valuable lesson. By confronting and overcoming negative anticipation, we can emerge victorious, no matter how winding the path or elusive the goal.

During our recent escape room getaway, our team returned to an escape room venue we had visited three years prior. Our anticipation was high, fueled by fond memories of its sophistication and fun. With five new rooms to conquer in a single day, our excitement was palpable. Our adventure began by battling phantoms in an abandoned campground, followed by four other captivating yet frustrating challenges. Over dinner, as we discussed our experiences, we realized our heightened expectations were the source of our frustration. Our recollection of enjoyment was genuine, but our perspective had evolved dramatically after tackling some of the world’s most exceptional escape rooms in the following years.

Have you ever revisited a place, situation, or individual, only to perceive them differently after new experiences? This shift in perspective can happen gradually over the years or instantaneously. It might feel unsettling initially, but reflecting on your personal growth and how it reshapes your perceptions can be incredibly enlightening. Consider your journey and how it has informed your outlook—it’s a valuable part of your ongoing development!