Let’s Chat: An icebreaker to remember

By Linda Tooth on September 20, 2023.

I recently met a group of students I did not know and was wondering how I could get to know them in a short period of time.

An icebreaker is a great way to ‘break the ice’ and let down barriers and create an even playing field where people can share information.

I chose the icebreaker “Life Map.”

Each student was given a piece of paper and had to draw their life journey in the form of a map. Some of my students are classified as mature, so for them I told them to start with a specific time in their life that had meaning and to go from there. Those who were younger in age drew from their birth until they landed at college. Upon completion of their map, they then had to get up and introduce themselves and talk about their journey.

To say I was overwhelmed with the responses would be an understatement.

Bullying, suicidal thoughts, changes in study plans, overseas adventures in England, Italy and Germany, meeting Queen Elizabeth II, dealing with COVID-19 anxiety, personal growth, leaving toxic relationships, moving from India, Venezuela and Nigeria to Medicine Hat for a better life, marriage and leaving their spouses back home in the pursuit of higher education, isolation, transgender children and leaving one culture to join another.

It was unbelievable!

Everyone has a story and when they start to open and share their experiences, it is amazing what you can learn. That is what I love most about communications, the learning. No two people are the same and when you start to have conversations with people the world opens. Whether it is someone with a transgender child being bullied or someone who has recently contemplated suicide, the stories are endless.

What does your life map look like? Could you share your experiences in a room with strangers? Thirty-six people did and I was truly impressed with their journeys and what they have overcome to get to where they are now.

Never underestimate your ability to take part in a journey. Every step you have taken has been part of your life map.

I’d love to meet and discuss where you have come from and what your journey has looked like. Remember, everyone has a story.