The Leadership Training Activity Book: 50 Exercises

Step 6: Spring into action. Have participants move to the tables you have already

set up for the craft project.

Continue discussing the garden metaphor as you explain that they

are going to spring into action and plant a spring flower: first by

“stamping” the pot, and then by adding a plant.

To “stamp” the pots, have participants select stamps that represent

their own growth or what they want to develop in themselves: pictures

of birds, flowers, the sun, and so on. Demonstrate how to ink the stamp,

apply it to the pot, and then clean the stamp afterward. Suggest that

they use the quick-dry spray to help speed the process. The pots will

need time to dry, so emphasize the importance of patience if you want

good results. Don’t let them rush through this part of the activity.

Once the pots have dried for a few minutes, have participants move

to the second table to add dirt, seeds, plants, and water.

Step 7: Summarize this activity with these words: “Today we had some fun

thinking about how our own professional and personal development is

like gardening. Put your pot in a place where it will serve as a daily

reminder of what you have learned. And don’t forget to give it what it

needs to grow!”

Discuss how participants can use this same metaphor and the craft

project with the people they lead, to help them accomplish their

development goals.

POST-ACTIVITY REVIEW

Take time shortly after conducting this activity to reflect on how it went, how engaged

the participants were, and what questions they raised. Then, make notes that include

how much time you actually spent on the activity.

(^166) THE LEADERSHIP TRAINING ACTIVITY BOOK