Rose, Thorn, Bud: Deep Team Reflection & Sharing Guide
A powerful sharing activity to reflect on a positive (Rose), a challenge (Thorn), and a hope (Bud). Perfect for deep team check-ins.
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
How to Play: Interactive Guide
- 1Go around the group and have each person share three things:
- 2A 'Rose': a positive thing or highlight from their day/week.
- 3A 'Thorn': a challenge they faced.
- 4A 'Bud': something they are looking forward to.
- 5This is a great way to check in and share on a deeper level.
Variations
- Async Version: Collect Rose/Thorn/Bud in a form before the meeting; summarize themes live to save time.
- Silent Starter: Give 60 seconds for private reflection to help introverts prepare.
- Focus Rotation: One week emphasize Roses (wins), another week emphasize Buds (opportunities).
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
We're going to do a check-in called Rose, Thorn, and Bud. Share your Rose - something positive from recently; your Thorn - a challenge you're facing; and your Bud - something you're looking forward to. This helps us understand how everyone is really doing. I'll go first to model.
Closing Script:
Thank you everyone for sharing so openly. It takes courage to share both our wins and struggles. Remember, we're all here to support each other through the thorns and celebrate the roses together.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: Balancing wins, challenges, and hopes makes sharing feel real and hopeful. The 'bud' looks forward, not just back. Over time, this simple ritual helps the group feel safe being honest.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Team check-ins and retrospectives
- Building psychological safety
- Teams going through challenging times
- Regular team rituals (weekly/monthly)
- Both virtual and in-person settings
Important Notes
- Some people may share very personal or heavy thorns - be prepared to acknowledge and support
- Set a time limit per person (1-2 minutes) to keep it moving
- Model vulnerability as the facilitator to set the tone
- Consider making thorns optional for those uncomfortable sharing challenges
Game FAQ
What if someone shares a very heavy Thorn?
Acknowledge sincerely, thank them for trust, and follow up 1:1 after the meeting. Don’t problem-solve on the spot unless invited.
How to keep it within time?
Timebox to 60–90 seconds per person and model concise sharing. For large groups, sample 6–8 people per round and rotate weekly.
