“I Am”
The most important word in the world follows the phrase “I Am”. This exercise is designed for individuals to get to know each other at a deeper level.
Use Case: Icebreaker
Time: 5-10 minutes
Purpose: Relationship building, Team building, Intimacy
Number of People: N/A
Ideal Audience: A group that doesn’t know each other very well; a group that is looking to create more intimacy
Description
This fast-paced improv exercise is designed to help individuals get to know each other.
Objectives:
Vulnerability and human connection
Illustrate the fallacy of connection – just because you’re around someone doesn’t mean you’re connected or comfortable with them
Emphasize the importance of being present with your relationship and the people that you lead
Instruction
Participants pair up with someone who they feel least connected to
Take turns saying the statement “I am _____” and filling in the blank for two minutes. Like a tennis match, rally back and forth sharing different aspects of who you are!
(If time allows) Do multiple rounds and switch partners
Facilitated Debrief:
What did you notice about what you shared with your partner?
What patterns did you notice in the back-and-forth sharing?
We often share the same level of intimacy as the question or answer that was given. Challenge the group to go deeper if they notice they are ejecting out of a deeper conversation that is important to have
