WorkPlay

Create Your Own Holiday

Icebreaker prompt that doesn’t suck

As part of university orientation week activities, I asked a hundred first-year students the same icebreaker question.

“If you could create your own holiday, what would you choose, and how would you celebrate?”

I was impressed with the creativity and the level of depth in many of the answers. Here are some of the most memorable responses.

Pet Petting Day

Large gatherings of fluffy animals are brought to parks, office buildings, etc.

Treat Yourself Day

Everyone gets 24 hours dedicated to self-care.

Switch Day

Poor people and rich people must live a day in each other’s shoes.

Travel Anywhere for $10 Day

Drive or fly anywhere in the world for $10.

Family Time Weekend

Everyone gets to spend a weekend in a forest cabin with board games and no electronics.

Food Cheat Day

Eat any food you want without adverse effects on the body.

Racial Understanding Day

We dedicate our time to listening to each other’s stories and seeking understanding without judgment.

Go Back in Time and Punch a Dictator in the Face Day

Self-explanatory, but might have some logistical challenges.

Kids Sleep All Night for a Week

By some magical force, young children sleep all night without needing potty breaks or diaper changes. [Full Disclosure: This holiday was my request]

Cow Christmas

Cows dress up and celebrate in Christmas outfits instead of the people.

I like asking this question because the students are engaged, and the answers are so unpredictable. Many of these responses were ridiculous and kept the students laughing.

Other holidays were profound and insightful changes to improve the world. Either way, the question offers a brief glimpse into what the students value in a psychologically safe way.

Reflection and Action:

• If you could create your own holiday, what would you choose, and how would you celebrate?
• Try asking a teammate, family member, or direct report, and enjoy the celebration!
• For a fun team outing, pick one of these made-up holidays to actually celebrate.
• Create an e-vite
• Make sure there is food
• Are there costumes? Decorations? Traditional activities to create?
• Celebrate together!

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