This one works whether people are seated, standing, or holding a drink.
It’s as simple as it is powerful.
People are fascinated by names – how they came to be, where they came from, and what stories sit behind them.
For example, my full name is Mark Alan Collard. But the name “Collard” was actually a mistake.
Three generations ago, on an official form, my great-grandfather’s surname “Callard” was misread, and the first ‘A’ was mistaken for an ‘O.’
From that point forward, our family name became Collard – and that’s the name that stuck.
To run this activity, simply share your own name story and then invite others to do the same.
Some will know a full story, others might not—and that’s okay.
I even give permission for folks to be creative and make it up!
The key here is interaction and energy.
This activity always builds energy in a room, and you can never have too much of that, especially in a formal setting.
Another favourite, and perfect if your group is seated or standing.
You can even just play the video directly for your group.
Here’s how it works: you read aloud a short story about Mr & Mrs Wright.
Every time participants hear the word “right,” they lean or step to the right.
Every time they hear “left,” they lean or step to the left.
It’s a surprisingly engaging game, considering its simplicity.
The story takes about 90 seconds, and the movements are subtle enough that they don’t disturb the formality of the setting – but they absolutely energise the room.
This one is great during breaks – like morning tea, when people are milling about.
I ask people to use their pointer finger and trace a clock face above themselves =- 12, 3, 6, 9, and so on, in a clockwise direction.
Then, I have them slowly bring their rotating finger below their chin while continuing the motion.
Here’s the twist: at a certain point, their finger appears to be moving in the opposite direction – anti-clockwise.
The first time people see it, they’re amazed.
It’s a small brain break, a bit of fun – but also a powerful metaphor.
Nothing changed but your perspective.
That’s the kind of deeper connection you can make in a very lighthearted way.
And if you’re struggling to link it to your session’s theme – ask me in the comments. WWMD? What would Mark do?
This is hands-down one of the most fun and energising group activities I’ve ever used – even in very formal settings.
Here’s how it works: ask everyone to hold one hand flat like a tray.
Then, with their other hand, place a finger into the palm of the person next to them.
On your cue, “GO!” Everyone tries to catch the finger in their palm while also pulling their own finger out before it’s caught.
Chaos and shrieks of laughter ensue!
It’s quick, it’s energetic, and it always gets people smiling.
You can repeat it with left hands, right hands, or form different groupings to keep it fresh.
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