Life Lessons To Be Learned From Improv

The Artist has been performing in various improv companies since early 2012.  He's been on the stages of L.A. Connection Comedy and The Second City Hollywood.  Zach has also taken classes at The Groundlings.

While a lot of improv is goofy comedy and silly situations, there are also some useful lessons that can be used in everyday life.

One of the basics ideas behind improv comedy is "Yes And...".  What this means is that you always agree with the person you're performing with on stage.  You agree and say "YES".  The act of saying "yes" means you agree with the scene and situation your on-stage partner has created.  This is known as "The Rule Of Agreement".

Working As A Team At Second City Hollywood

Are you always going to agree with your friends and co-workers?  Will you always say "Yes And..." to their ideas?

In a word...No.

But "The Rule Of Agreement" reminds you to keep an open mind and to respect what your friends and co-workers have created.  The idea of "Yes And..." also helps the act of creation because it allows you to add to the thought process and contribute your own ideas.

Practicing "Yes And..." allows each cast member to contribute to a scene.

Improv also teaches you to be decisive and make statements.  The scene will not go anywhere if you answer your partner with a question.  Improv teaches you to make a statement that moves the scene forward and gives your partner the next step in the scene.

The same advice can be used in the business world.  Answering your boss with a question doesn't help resolve a situation.  Answering with a definitive statement lets your boss know where you stand on a question or issue.

 

Don't Be The One Guy Standing Alone At Work Acting All Superior!

 

Improv has helped Zach become a better stage performer and a better "team player" on set and at home.  Not everyone can say they have a teenager who is willing help at home!

Come On - You Know You Want To Click The Link To Zach's IMDb Page