Small groups have potential for capturing and enhancing the strengths and personalities of their members. You can capitalize on that potential with simple exercises.

Have each member of the group describe, in detail, an ideal room. It might be a real place, such as his or her favorite room, or it might be a description of a room in which he or she would feel most comfortable and at home. Have each member tell what furniture is in the room, what style and mood it portrays, and why he or she chose to share this particular room from their imagination.

A person is often most willing to be transparent and vulnerable in desirable and comfortable surroundings. We can share some of our biggest hopes, fears and cherished ideas as we describe a place in which we feel at home.

—Adapted from the Small Group Letter, volume 1, number 3, © The Navigators. Used by permission.