Timeline Project

Often, we neglect to take the time for self-reflection on our life experiences. Research has shown that when traumatic events remain unprocessed or unspoken, these memories can become ensnared in the "trauma" center of our brains, giving rise to behaviors, concealed triggers, and underlying issues. An effective approach to addressing this is through open dialogue. A simple and accessible activity for individuals, teams, or families involves providing each participant with paper or small Post-it notes and instructing them to jot down significant events that have transpired within a predetermined timeframe, such as the past month, six months, or year—assigning one event per Post-it note. Allocate a generous period, perhaps 30 minutes or longer, for personal brainstorming and reflection.

Once this individual reflection is complete, convene as a group to collaborate and discuss the events. Together, the group can either place their Post-it notes on timeline paper or designate one volunteer to chronologically record these events. This process unveils the impact of certain events on an individual, initiating the process of reflection on why they held significance, the messages derived from these events, and perhaps even discerning what greater meaning or message may be conveyed through them.

Importantly, it is vital to recognize that what holds importance for one person may not even appear on the list for another. This exercise facilitates collective reflection and helps us gain insights into the experiences that have shaped the individuals within our team or family. It is crucial to refrain from judging the impact of one event over another, recognizing that we all possess different cognitive processes, emotional responses, and unique cultural perspectives. When approached with empathy and a sincere desire to understand one another, this exercise can foster bonding and mutual learning among participants.