open · Self-Reflection, Team Building, Diversity & Inclusion · 30 min · 1-30 people · low energy

Power & Me: Wheel of Power Reflection

This activity encourages participants to explore their social identities and how these identities influence their experiences and interactions. It fosters self-awareness and understanding of power dynamics within a group or community.

When to use Power & Me: Wheel of Power Reflection

Use this method at the beginning of a workshop or project to build a foundation of understanding around diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's particularly useful when addressing sensitive topics or working with diverse teams.

What it solves

Lack of awareness of personal biases and privileges, difficulty understanding diverse perspectives, superficial engagement with DEI topics.

How to run Power & Me: Wheel of Power Reflection, step by step

  1. Introduce the concepts of social identity, intersectionality, and the Wheel of Power (5 mins)
  2. Distribute the Wheel of Power handout and reflective questions (2 mins)
  3. Individually reflect on elements of the Wheel and personal identities, answering reflective questions (15 mins)
  4. Facilitate a group conversation about additions to the Wheel to make it more inclusive (8 mins)

Materials needed

  • Wheel of Power handout
  • Reflective questions (printed or digital)
  • Pens/pencils
  • Envelopes (optional, for privacy)
  • Sticky notes (optional)

Facilitator tips

  • Acknowledge that the Wheel is rooted in North American norms and may need adaptation.
  • Emphasize that sharing is optional and respect individual boundaries.
  • Create a safe and confidential environment for reflection.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants feeling uncomfortable sharing personal information. Remind them that participation is voluntary.
  • Superficial engagement with the concepts. Encourage deeper reflection through probing questions.
  • Dominant voices overshadowing quieter participants. Use breakout rooms or written reflections to ensure everyone has a chance to contribute.

Variations

  • Use a different framework for exploring social identities.
  • Focus on specific dimensions of identity relevant to the group's work.
  • Have participants create their own personalized Wheel of Power.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a digital whiteboard for individual reflection and sharing. Ensure privacy settings are clear.

What it produces

Individual reflections on the Wheel of Power, notes on social identities and their impact.

Origin

Based on Duckworth's Wheel of Power — source

Build a session around Power & Me: Wheel of Power Reflection

METODIC places Power & Me: Wheel of Power Reflection inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with Power & Me: Wheel of Power Reflection · Try METODIC free