What I Would Have Done

The “What I Would Have Done” icebreaker is a game that encourages players to explore different paths in life and hypotheticals through the use of positive words and scenarios. The purpose of this activity is to open up discussion paths among the group, allowing players to learn more about each other in a fun and engaging way. To play, participants write different life events on scraps of paper, such as prom or sports, and place them in a box. Each player then draws a piece of paper and shares what originally happened in their life with that word, followed by something they would like to try instead and why. This game has no winners or losers, the goal is to encourage open communication and share experiences in a positive manner.

1. Write different life events on torn-up scraps of paper and put them in a box.
2. Each player takes a turn drawing a piece of paper from the box.
3. The player reads the word out loud and describes how it relates to their own life.
4. The player then shares what they would have done instead, and explains why.
5. Keep turns short and sweet to ensure everyone has a chance to participate.
6. There are no winners or losers in this game - the goal is to open up discussion and learn more about each other.
7. Listen actively when others share, and give genuine answers during your turn to encourage meaningful conversation.

• Paper: You’ll need paper to write down different life events that will be used during the game. Make sure to tear or cut the paper into small scraps.
• A pen: A pen is required to write the life events on the pieces of paper.
• A box: The box serves as a container for the life event scraps of paper. Players will pick a random life event from this box during the game.

To set up for the “What I Would Have Done” icebreaker activity, you will need to gather a group of people and prepare a box with torn-up scraps of paper. Each piece of paper should have a different life event or experience written on it, such as “prom,” “traveling abroad,” or “playing sports.” These words should be chosen based on events that are relevant and relatable to the participants. The papers should be folded or have a hole cut in them so that they cannot be seen when placed in the box. Once all of the papers are prepared, place the box in the center of the game room. This concludes the setup for the “What I Would Have Done” icebreaker activity.

1. Write life events on scraps of paper: Take a piece of paper and write down different life events that can be relatable to all players. Examples could be prom, sports, or vacations. Fold the papers and place them in a box.
2. Draw a piece of paper from the box: Each player takes turns drawing a piece of paper from the box. Make sure not to look at the paper until it is your turn to draw.
3. Read the life event out loud: Once you have drawn a paper, read the life event out loud for everyone to hear. This will be the topic that you will share about.
4. Discuss your original experience: Talk about what happened in your life related to the drawn life event. For example, if you drew sports, discuss which sport you played and any experiences or memories you have from it.
5. Share what you would have tried instead: After sharing your original experience, talk about a different path that you would have taken. Using the previous example, you could say that you wish you had tried playing baseball instead of soccer.
6. Explain why you would have chosen this new activity: Discuss why you would have chosen to try the new activity. This can include your interests and motivations.
7. Keep the game positive: Make sure to keep the game light-hearted and upbeat by using positive words and avoiding negative comparisons.
8. Listen actively to other players: Pay attention to what other players are sharing, and respond with thoughtful comments or questions. This will help create a supportive and engaging atmosphere.
9. Take turns drawing papers: Make sure that everyone has an equal opportunity to draw a paper and share their thoughts.
10. Remember, there are no winners or losers: The goal of this game is to open up discussion paths and get to know each other better. There are no correct or incorrect answers, only different perspectives and experiences.

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• Encourages open communication: By sharing personal life events and hypothetical scenarios, players are encouraged to openly communicate with one another, fostering a sense of trust and connection within the group.
• Promotes self-reflection: The game requires players to reflect on their own experiences and consider alternative paths they could have taken, which can lead to increased self-awareness and personal growth.
• Stimulates creativity and imagination: By imagining themselves in different scenarios, players are able to exercise their creative muscles and think outside the box.
• Breaks the ice: The game is designed to break the ice and get players comfortable with one another. By sharing personal stories and hypotheticals, players can form bonds and build relationships.
• Encourages active listening: The game requires players to actively listen to one another as they share their thoughts and experiences. This helps to improve communication skills and fosters a sense of empathy and understanding within the group.
• Is inclusive and accessible: The simple materials needed and broad range of life events included in the game make it an inclusive and accessible activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

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• Communication skills: Playing “What I Would Have Done” requires players to articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly, helping to build confidence in verbal communication.
• Empathy: By listening to others’ hypothetical life paths, players can develop a better understanding of different perspectives, fostering empathy and compassion.
• Critical thinking: The game encourages players to think creatively and critically about different scenarios, helping them to consider alternative possibilities in real-life situations.
• Active listening: In order to participate fully in the game, players must actively listen to others’ responses and respond thoughtfully, which can improve overall communication skills.
• Self-reflection: The game provides an opportunity for players to reflect on their own life experiences and consider alternative paths they might have taken, promoting self-awareness and growth.
• Positivity: With a focus on positive words and upbeat scenarios, the game encourages a positive attitude and can help to build a positive group dynamic.
• Open-mindedness: By considering different perspectives and possibilities, players can become more open-minded and receptive to new ideas.
• Icebreaker skills: As a icebreaker game, “What I Would Have Done” provides an opportunity for players to get to know each other in a fun and engaging way, helping to build connections and relationships.

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I like the “What I Would Have Done” icebreaker because it encourages players to think about different paths their lives could have taken in a positive and upbeat way. The game provides an opportunity for individuals to share their experiences, dreams, and aspirations, which can help build connections and foster a sense of community among the group.

The simplicity of the game’s setup and rules makes it easy to play and accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. The use of paper scraps with different life events written on them adds an element of surprise and excitement, as players never know what they will draw. This can make for some fun and interesting discussions.

One aspect I particularly appreciate about this icebreaker is that there are no winners or losers, which removes any pressure or competitiveness from the game. Instead, the focus is on opening up discussion paths and encouraging active listening among the group. By genuinely engaging with other players’ responses and sharing their own thoughts and feelings, individuals can build meaningful relationships and learn more about each other.

Overall, I find “What I Would Have Done” to be a valuable icebreaker game that promotes positivity, creativity, and connection among players.

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• Tip: Consider using life events that are relevant to a wide range of people, including those from different cultural backgrounds and experiences. For example, instead of only using prom or sports-related words, you could include things like traveling, volunteering, or learning a new skill.
• Tip: Make sure the language used on the scraps of paper is inclusive and respectful. Avoid using ableist or gendered language, and try to use terms that are affirming and welcoming for all players.
• Tip: Encourage players to share their own life events or experiences related to the word they draw, if they feel comfortable doing so. This can help create a more personal and meaningful connection between players.
• Tip: Consider adding a time limit for each player’s turn to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and share.
• Tip: If possible, provide options for players to write their own life events or scenarios to include in the game. This can help ensure that the game is inclusive of a wide range of experiences and perspectives.
• Tip: Remind players to be respectful and considerate during the game, and to avoid making assumptions about others’ experiences based on the word they draw. Encourage active listening and thoughtful responses.

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1. What was one life event you drew that resonated with you the most? This question can help participants reflect on their own experiences and connect with each other on a deeper level.
2. If you could have done one thing differently in your past, what would it be and why? This question can encourage self-reflection and personal growth, as well as spark meaningful conversations about the power of choices and second chances.
3. How did it feel to share something you might not normally share with a group? This question can help participants open up and build trust with each other, as well as foster a supportive and inclusive game environment.
4. Did any of the answers given by others inspire you or make you think differently about a particular life event? This question can promote active listening and empathy, as well as encourage participants to appreciate different perspectives and experiences.
5. How can you apply what you’ve learned from this game to your own life and relationships? This question can help participants reflect on the insights gained from the game and consider how they can use them to make positive changes in their lives.

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