Breaking the ice - 25 unique questions for your next gathering
If you've been to an event I led, you probably got asked to answer an icebreaker question. And if you’ve been to my house, I probably pulled out Table Topics or Where Should We Begin cards.
Some people love it, and some people would prefer not to be put on the spot answering personal questions in front of friends or strangers. I get that it can be awkward or scary.
But in service of getting past the small talk, creating greater connections, and showing up as our true selves, I insist.
I do try to use questions that are unique or different from your typical question. It’s amazing what the most simple question can bring up. In the book The Art of Gathering (one of the books I’ve gifted the most), author Priya Parker emphasizes the importance of intentional and meaningful openings for gatherings, rather than relying on conventional icebreaker questions. She advocates for starting events with activities or gestures that align with the gathering's specific purpose, thereby setting a tone that fosters genuine connection among participants. This approach helps create a "temporary alternative world, encouraging attendees to engage more deeply and authentically.
If you’re interested in starting your next team meeting, event, or even your holiday gathering with a unique question, I’ve included 25 questions below.
If you had your own personal coat of arms, what images would you put on it?
What is the best decision you ever made?
What does “letting go” mean to you?
What is your favorite thing about yourself?
What have you used a “beginner’s mindset” on lately?
Describe yourself in one word.
Describe your future self in one word.
What was your first concert?
What is something you are currently working on to get better at?
What is one goal you have for yourself that you’ve been avoiding?
What brings you joy?
What is the most unexpected compliment you ever received?
What fuels you?
What’s something that still makes you laugh when you think about it?
What would surprise people to know about you?
What is the most thoughtful gift you ever received?
What is the bravest thing you’ve done?
What is your most irrational fear?
What was your favorite thing to do as a kid?
What is your superpower?
What is your biggest pet peeve?
What’s something you always wanted to try but haven’t?
If you could go somewhere for the weekend without worrying about logistics, travel time, or money, where would you go?
When did you last feel out of your comfort zone?
What are you currently obsessed with?
Some of these came from this awesome deck of heart-centered questions I recently picked up called Thalken Heart Questions. I loved everything about this store and this deck of cards. Some also came from Where Should We Begin?.
I’d love to know your favorite question!