Here’s an intriguing story from our lead trainer, who shared how he incorporated the concept of a totem into his training delivery.
Growing up in the United States brought his first encounter with a totem pole, sparking a lifelong fascination with totems. This concept found a deeper connection with the idea introduced in Christopher Nolan’s movie “Inception”, where a totem helps differentiate between dreams and reality. The movie became an inspiration to apply a similar concept in the training environment.
In training sessions, there isn’t a physical emblem or idol used. Instead, the notion of a “totem” serves as a grounding element—a reality check to ensure the delivery remains effective and doesn’t stray too far from the participants’ needs.
At the start of each session, there’s a personal ritual of scanning the room to identify a “totem” among the participants. This selection is never announced but quietly chosen as a gauge for connection. The choice often leans toward the participant who feels the most intimidating—perhaps due to physical presence, age, experience, or a combination of factors.
Throughout the session, attention is given to how this secret “totem” reacts.
Key observations include:
- Are they responding positively to the delivery style?
- Do they remain engaged?
- Was an “a-ha moment” successfully triggered for them?
- Are they satisfied with the outcome?
These pulse-check questions guide the session’s effectiveness. Ensuring the experience is meaningful for the “totem” often translates to delivering value for the entire group. This approach helps to stay grounded and aligned with participants’ expectations, making the training more impactful for everyone.