open · Icebreaker, Team Building · 15–25 min · 3-15 people · low energy

Furthest From Home

This question encourages reflection and sharing by asking participants to define and describe the furthest they've ever been from 'home,' whether physically, emotionally, or experientially. It promotes deeper understanding and empathy within the team.

When to use Furthest From Home

Use this activity to foster connection and encourage creative thinking within the team.

What it solves

Superficial conversations, lack of understanding of team members' backgrounds and perspectives.

How to run Furthest From Home, step by step

  1. Facilitator introduces the question: 'What's the furthest away from home you've ever been?' Emphasize that 'home' and 'distance' are open to interpretation. (2 minutes)
  2. Each participant shares their answer, explaining their interpretation of 'home' and 'distance'. (2-3 minutes per person)
  3. Facilitate a discussion, encouraging participants to ask clarifying questions and share their reactions. (5 minutes)

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to be open to different interpretations of 'home' and 'distance'.
  • Remind participants that they don't have to share anything they're not comfortable with.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants feeling pressured to share personal information. Emphasize that they can be as general or specific as they like.
  • The discussion becoming too abstract or philosophical. Gently steer it back to personal experiences.

Variations

  • Ask participants to share a photo or object that represents 'home' for them.
  • Have participants write down their answer anonymously and then discuss the different interpretations as a group.

Running it online or hybrid

In a virtual setting, encourage participants to share photos or maps related to their answer. Use breakout rooms for smaller group discussions.

What it produces

Shared stories and a broadened understanding of each other's perspectives.

Origin

Adapted from Range.co — source

Build a session around Furthest From Home

METODIC places Furthest From Home inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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