Quick Ice Breaker Games for Meetings (5-10 Minutes)
Short on time? Discover quick ice breaker games that work in just 5-10 minutes. Perfect for busy meetings, standups, and when you need fast, effective team connection.
14 min read
•December 5Rose, Thorn, Bud
4.8
(2,765 ratings)Reflective check-in where participants share a highlight (rose), a challenge (thorn), and something they're looking forward to (bud).
Rose, Thorn, Bud is a structured reflection framework that creates space for authentic sharing. Each person shares three things: a Rose (something positive or a highlight), a Thorn (a challenge or difficulty), and a Bud (something they are looking forward to or an opportunity). This simple structure encourages balanced perspective, normalizes sharing challenges alongside successes, and builds team empathy. It works exceptionally well as a recurring check-in ritual.
15-35 min4-15 peopleindoor
ReflectiveCorporateSmall Groups
Getting to Know YouCommunication
Objective
Create space for authentic sharing and build team empathy through structured reflection.
No materials needed! This game is ready to play immediately.
How to Play
1
Explain the Framework
2 minDescribe Rose (positive), Thorn (challenge), and Bud (something anticipated). Can be work or personal.
2
Give Reflection Time
3 minAllow 2-3 minutes for participants to think about their rose, thorn, and bud.
3
Share in Circle
20 minGo around the group, each person shares their three items (1-2 minutes each). No cross-talk or advice during sharing.
4
Identify Themes
5 minAfter all shares, discuss patterns: common challenges, shared excitement, team roses.
5
Action on Thorns
5 minIdentify if any thorns need team support or action. Make commitments to help where possible.
Pro Tips
facilitationImportant
Share your own rose, thorn, bud first to model appropriate depth and vulnerability.
preparationImportant
Clarify timeframe: roses/thorns/buds from this week? This month? General life?
Variations
Try these variations to adapt the game for different contexts and group sizes.
Project Rose Thorn Bud
Apply specifically to a project: what went well, challenges faced, what's next.
Anonymous Rose Thorn Bud
Collect responses anonymously, then discuss patterns without attribution.
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