Project-Specific

Hopes And Fears

This exercise prepares everyone emotionally. Participants share hopes and concerns about the project. It aligns the team and reveals hidden assumptions. This builds a shared understanding before project work begins, leading to better collaboration and decisions.

Duration
25 mins
Group Size
4-15
Category
Project-Specific
Energy
Medium
• Surface emotional responses • Create psychological safety • Align around aspirations • Identify potential obstacles
Teams gain emotional awareness and understand each other's motivations. Risks and opportunities are identified early. Expect higher engagement and participation. Participants will have concrete examples of shared values and working preferences.
This variation focuses on individual versus collective perspectives. It can provide a different approach that resonates better with some groups. To run it, adjust the sharing round to explore individual and collective hopes/fears separately.
Create a safe space for sharing fears. Validate all emotions expressed. Look for common themes and connect these to project planning. It's okay if some participants are hesitant to share; don't force participation.

  1. Introduction (1 min): Explain the exercise. Participants write hopes and fears on different colored notes. 2. Individual Work (7 min): Participants prepare their notes. 3. Sharing Round (12 min): Each person shares their hopes and fears. 4. Wrap-up (5 min): Discuss common themes and insights. Plan actions based on the discussion.

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

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  • Sticky notes (physical or digital like Miro/Mural), multiple colors recommended

  • Video conferencing platform with breakout room capability (for remote sessions)

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

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