Break The IceBreak The Ice

Life Timeline

4.8
(876 ratings)

Participants create and share visual timelines of their life journey, marking significant moments and transitions.

Life Timeline is a deep personal sharing activity where participants map significant moments from their entire life journey. Unlike Career Timeline which focuses on professional life, this encompasses childhood, education, relationships, personal growth, and major life events. Participants create visual timelines marking pivotal moments, then share the story of their journey. This vulnerable sharing builds profound understanding, empathy, and connection among team members.

45-90 min4-10 peopleindoor
ReflectiveSmall GroupsAdults
Getting to Know You

Objective

Build profound understanding and empathy through deep personal story sharing.

Materials Needed
  • Large paper and markers
  • Digital timeline tool (for virtual)
  • Timeline template (optional)

How to Play

1

Introduce with Care

5 min

Explain the depth of this activity. Emphasize safety, confidentiality, and that participation is voluntary.

2

Create Timelines

20 min

Give 15-20 minutes to create personal timelines. Include birth to present. Mark 8-12 significant moments, transitions, or turning points.

3

Share Stories

50 min

Each person shares their timeline (5-8 minutes). Others listen without interruption. Allow emotion - tears are okay.

4

Questions and Connection

10 min

After each share, allow 2-3 minutes for curious, compassionate questions.

5

Closing Circle

5 min

Share one word about how the experience felt. Thank everyone for their vulnerability.

Pro Tips

safetyImportant

Only use with established teams with existing trust. Not appropriate for first meetings.

facilitationImportant

Create sacred space - no phones, no interruptions, deep listening only.

preparationImportant

Warn participants in advance about the personal nature so they can prepare emotionally.

Variations

Try these variations to adapt the game for different contexts and group sizes.

Future Life Timeline
Extend timeline 10-20 years into the future with hopes and dreams.

Changes:

Duration60-110 min
Themed Timeline
Focus on specific life theme: resilience moments, joy timeline, or growth journey.

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