Training Activities

This growing list of activities is intended to aid in the instruction and learning of MI. Resources created by Jesse Jonesberg are covered by Creative Commons Copyright and can be used free of charge for your learning and training purposes. Using Jesse Jonesberg's materials for commercial use without permission is expressly prohibited. Please always cite Jesse when using documents he has created.

MI Activities

Discord Dodge Ball
An interactive team exercise in working with sustain talk and discord
Catch the Change 
An exercise using a ball to help participants practice identifying and using change talk.
Colombo Approach
This is an entertaining way to learn about developing discrepancies using a clip form the old television show "Colombo."
Intrinsic Airlines
An activity in throwing paper airplanes and exploring intrinsic/extrinsic motivators.
Change Talk vs. Sustain Talk
An activity in evoking both change and sustain talk and understanding the difference.
Cards to Help Humanity
An MI game designed to be a fun way to develop thoughtful reflections.
Awkward Cocktail Hour
An activity that incorporates movement, music and practice of MI skills.
MI Basics Review Activity
A table group activity intended to evoke basic MI concepts from the group.
Traps to Engagement Skits
Participants act out traps in 2 min skits as a way of introducing the traps to engagement. 

Mindfulness Activities

Observing Our Thoughts
An activity in observing our thoughts: past, present and future
Tuning In
Meditation on inner and outer sounds
Balloon Swat
A fun mindfulness game with balloons.
Mindfulness Walking Activity
Exploration of different types of walking. ​
20 Seconds of Mindfulness
A brief meditation to set one's intentions for the day.

Other Activities

Using Apologies, Teaching Apologies
An activity that explores he use and teaching of giving effective apologies.
Collaborating to Create Boundaries with Compassion
An activity to explore ways of creating and maintaining boundaries.