Rose, Bud, Thorn
Team members share a Rose (highlight), Bud (something they're looking forward to), and Thorn (challenge) from their week.
10-20 min
3-30 people
low
None needed
About This Game
Rose, Bud, Thorn is a simple yet powerful reflection activity that helps teams check in with each other on both professional and personal levels. Each person shares three things: a Rose (a highlight or win), a Bud (something they're excited about or looking forward to), and a Thorn (a challenge or frustration). This activity builds empathy, creates psychological safety, and helps teams stay connected.
Objectives
- Create space for team members to share their current state
- Build empathy and understanding across the team
- Celebrate wins and acknowledge challenges
- Foster psychological safety through vulnerability
How to Run This Game
Facilitator Script:
"Let's do a quick check-in using Rose, Bud, Thorn. A Rose is a highlight from your week - something that went well. A Bud is something you're looking forward to. A Thorn is a challenge you're facing. These can be work-related or personal - whatever feels comfortable to share."
Actions:
- Explain each element clearly
- Emphasize that sharing is optional
- Set the tone by going first or having a volunteer
Tips:
- • Write the framework on a shared screen or whiteboard
- • Remind people they can keep it work-focused or include personal items
- • Set a time limit per person (1-2 minutes)
Facilitator Script:
"I'll start us off. My Rose is... my Bud is... and my Thorn is... Now let's go around the room. Who would like to go next?"
Actions:
- Model good sharing by going first
- Go around the room/screen
- Thank each person after they share
Tips:
- • For virtual meetings, go in alphabetical order or ask for volunteers
- • Listen actively and don't interrupt
- • Optionally allow brief follow-up questions
Facilitator Script:
"Thank you all for sharing! It's valuable to know what everyone is experiencing. Let's use this awareness to support each other this week."
Actions:
- Thank everyone for participating
- Acknowledge common themes if they emerged
- Transition to the main meeting agenda
Tips:
- • Note any Thorns that need follow-up support
- • Keep the energy positive as you transition
Facilitator Tips
- This works great as a recurring ritual (weekly team meetings)
- Be prepared to share first to set the vulnerability bar
- If someone shares a significant Thorn, follow up privately after
- Don't force participation - some people may prefer to pass
Common Challenges & Solutions
Variations & Adaptations
Similar framework: Peak (high point), Pit (low point), Potential (opportunity ahead)
Frame it around a specific project: wins, blockers, and what's next
teams have used this game