Weather Report Check-In Activity

Welcome to the Weather Report Check-In! In this activity, you'll use weather metaphors to express how you're feeling about the recent sprint. This creative method helps us communicate our emotions in a non-threatening and imaginative way, setting a relaxed tone for our discussion.

Activity Instructions

1. Introduction (2 minutes)

   • Begin by explaining the purpose of the activity: expressing feelings about the sprint using weather metaphors.
   • Encourage everyone to think of weather descriptions that reflect their current mood or attitude toward the sprint.

2. Personal Reflection (5 minutes)

   • Take a minute to reflect on your own feelings about the sprint. Consider questions like:
     • What kind of weather best represents how you felt during this sprint?
     • Was it clear and sunny, stormy and overcast, or perhaps unpredictable like a sudden squall?
   • Write down your weather metaphor in your notes. (
     
     
     for a very short answer if needed)

3. Sharing & Discussion (5 minutes)

   • One by one, each team member shares their weather metaphor with the group.
   • As each person shares, the facilitator can ask if they want to elaborate on the metaphor (e.g., why they chose that particular weather condition or what specific moments during the sprint it reflects).
   • This round of sharing helps open up the conversation and offers insights into the team's overall mood.

4. Facilitator’s Wrap-Up (3 minutes)

   • Summarize the common themes from the check-in.
   • Reflect on how these moods might influence group dynamics and planning for the next sprint.
   • Provide supportive feedback and suggest any follow-up actions if needed (e.g., addressing concerns raised during the check-in).

Examples of Weather Metaphors

• Sunny Day: Feeling positive and energized.
• Overcast: Feeling a bit down or lacking clarity.
• Stormy: Experiencing strong challenges or conflicts.
• Breezy: Feeling light and relaxed, with small challenges that are easily managed.

Feel free to be as creative as you like and even mix several weather conditions if your feelings are a mix of emotions.

Tips for Open Communication

• Foster a Safe Environment: Encourage honesty and remind everyone that there are no right or wrong weather metaphors. This is about expressing personal feelings.
• Listen Actively: As each person shares, practice active listening. Make note of recurring themes or significant emotions that might need further discussion.
• Encourage Follow-Up: If you notice a particular metaphor that raises concerns, suggest a one-on-one conversation or a follow-up discussion with the relevant team members after the session.

Follow-Up Questions

• How did you decide on your weather metaphor?
• What specific events or circumstances from the sprint influenced your choice?
• Were there any surprises during the sharing session that made you think differently about the sprint?

Let's use this creative exercise to build a clearer, more supportive team environment. Enjoy sharing your weather report!