Reimagine the World in 4 Steps

This 4-Step design tool moves participants from spectators to designers, reimagining the systems that shape our lives. For individuals, small groups, or multiple teams. Engage in classrooms, workshops, or social settings.

Step 1: Read This Is Life

Step into the world on the pages of the picture book This Is Life.

(5 minutes)

Step 2: Explore the 28 Shifts

Review the 28 shifts between today’s world and the one imagined in This Is Life.

Keep the shifts accessible as you move through the activity.

(View the 28 Shifts)

Step 3: Design Your Path

Sequence the shifts into pathways that shape how the world transforms.

(View Example Sequence)

Step 4: Tell the Story (Optional)

Describe the transformation that unfolds across your chosen shifts.

(View Example Narrative)

Advanced Mode: Define Your Own Shifts

In Step 2, self identify and select shifts from This Is Life. Add to, remove from, or combine them with the 28 shifts as needed.

Flexible by Design

  • Whether in a classroom, workshop, or game night, this activity offers a way to reimagine the world—for individuals, small groups, or multiple teams.
  • It can be approached in different ways. Some move through it on their own, shaping a personal path. Others work together, sequencing the 28 Shifts to arrive at a shared view of how the world transforms.
  • Whether experienced individually or with others, the process moves participants from spectators to designers.

Prepare Your Workspace

The Activity Pack includes:

  • 28 Shifts
  • Sequence Table and example
  • Narrative Sheet and example

Tools for the Digital Path:

  • A laptop or tablet with a PDF editor.
  • Access online version of This Is Life

Tools for the Analog Path:

  • This Is Life book
  • Printed activity sheets
  • Pen and/or pencil
  • Notepad
  • Sticky Notes
  • Chart Paper or Whiteboard (for mapping out the 28 shifts as a team)
begin activity