open · Team Building · 10–20 min · 5-30 people · medium energy
Love Rain
Love Rain is a team-building activity designed to foster a positive and supportive environment by encouraging participants to share appreciations with one another. It's a quick and effective way to boost morale and build connections within a group.
When to use Love Rain
Use this method at the beginning of a workshop or meeting to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, or after a challenging period to uplift team spirits.
What it solves
Lack of appreciation and recognition within the team, leading to decreased morale and engagement.
How to run Love Rain, step by step
- Prepare materials: A4 paper and tape for each participant. (5 mins)
- Tape a sheet of paper to each participant's back. (2 mins)
- Instruct participants to walk around and write compliments or appreciations on each other's backs, either directly on the paper or using sticky notes. (10-15 mins)
- Gather participants in a circle and have them remove their papers and read the appreciations they received. (5 mins)
- Debrief by inviting a few participants to share their favorite appreciation and asking the group how the exercise made them feel. (5 mins)
Materials needed
- A4 paper
- Masking tape
- Pens/markers
- Optional: Sticky notes
- Optional: Music
Facilitator tips
- Play upbeat music during the writing phase to create a more energetic atmosphere.
- Encourage participants to be specific and sincere in their appreciations.
Common pitfalls
- Some participants may feel uncomfortable writing or receiving compliments. Create a safe and supportive environment by emphasizing the importance of positive feedback.
- Ensure everyone receives at least one compliment. If necessary, prompt participants to write something for those who haven't received any.
Variations
- Instead of writing on backs, use a digital whiteboard where participants can add virtual sticky notes to each other's profiles.
- Focus the appreciations on specific skills or contributions related to a recent project.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a digital whiteboard like Miro with dedicated spaces for each participant. Encourage participants to upload photos to personalize the experience.
What it produces
A collection of compliments and appreciations received by each participant.
Origin
Adapted from Mischief Makers — source
Build a session around Love Rain
METODIC places Love Rain inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.