What Does It Mean to Trust the Process?
Trust me, I’m a doctor. We’ve all heard this phrase before and have possibly applied its essence to our work. In the game I play…
Imagine a speed dating event.
Two concentric circles of seats, set up with half the group seated on the inner circle while the folks in the outer circle move around in a clockwise direction with 5 minutes to introduce themselves and make their case.
The story goes that everyone spends their 5 minutes talking about themselves, selling their merits etc, etc.
Except one.
They ask every person they meet a single question: ‘What can I do to make you happy for the rest of your life?’
Needless to say, this person gets a thumbs up from everyone they meet.
This unique, single question is a great question because it shows that the interrogator is interested in the other, not themselves.
This reminds me of a saying a good friend once shared with me – the most interesting people in the world are those who are interested in you. So true.
So, in the context of building and nourishing relationships, what makes a good ice-breaker question?
I believe there is an art and a science to this answer, both of which are captured in the following thoughts:
Context matters, so it is unfair to tell you, dear reader, that THIS is the best list of questions. Not possible, there are just too many to draw on and every group is different.
More reasonably, I expect you will be inspired by the following icebreaker questions. You have my permission to adapt them based on the needs of your group, your program goals, and the change you want to make in the world.
Note the questions (generally) build in their intensity and depth.
To be honest, I want to add SOOOO many more questions to this list but I need to keep it brief.
Please… beg, borrow and steal these questions and integrate them into your own programs. May they lead to lots of wonderful moments of sharing and connection.
Even better, why not add your favourite icebreaker question in the Comments below.
With thanks to Chad Littlefield whose recent YouTube video inspired me to consider what I have discovered to be great icebreaker questions. His wonderful We Connect Cards are featured in the image above.
Best-selling book featuring 150+ fun group games & activities. Scan QR codes to access digital content including videos.
Brand new deck of cards featuring emoji images to help you inspire conversations about emotions, feelings & experiences.
These are great. Also had success with “What was your first paycheck job?”
I love:
What is one mistake you have made that you won’t make again?
Love it too Jed, great question 🙂