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Check In · Reflect & Reset

Dashboard Warning Lights

Choose the dashboard light that best matches how you are arriving today.

Time1–3 minutes

Group size2+ people

FormatIndividual, Table groups, Whole group

MaterialsA slide with eight dashboard symbols, Optional table number cards

01

What this accomplishes

Participants silently choose from familiar dashboard symbols: check engine, low fuel, tire pressure, oil, battery, temperature, seatbelt, or the mysterious light nobody can identify.

  • Give the facilitator a quick read of the room
  • Let participants enter the agenda without a long round of updates
02

Before you begin

Materials

  • A slide with eight dashboard symbols
  • Optional table number cards

Preparation

  • Display eight dashboard symbols with numbers
  • Include one unidentified warning light
  • Choose a silent pointing, number, or table-card response
03

What to say

“Which dashboard light is on for you today? Point, hold up its number, or pass. No explanation needed.”
04

How to run it

  1. 1

    Display the numbered dashboard lights.

  2. 2

    Give everyone ten silent seconds to choose.

  3. 3

    Participants point, show a number, or enter it in chat.

  4. 4

    Look at the room, thank everyone, and begin the agenda without asking why.

05

Prompts to use

Check engine · Low fuel · Tire pressure · Oil · Battery · Temperature · Seatbelt · The one nobody can identify

06

Adapt it to the room

Small group

Use one fast round. The facilitator answers first, and everyone may pass without explanation.

Large group

Run it simultaneously at tables or collect a silent room-wide signal; do not hear every response from the microphone.

Virtual

Share the visual and invite a number, color, icon, or private chat response. Cameras and explanations stay optional.

07

Accessibility & inclusion

  • Display and read the prompt aloud.
  • Allow speaking, writing, pointing, chat, or passing with equal status.
  • Never require eye contact, an explanation, or a public follow-up.
09

Why it works—and what can go wrong

Why it works

The symbols communicate strain, capacity, and uncertainty indirectly, which gives the facilitator information without demanding disclosure.

Watch out for

  • Keep the unidentified light; it is a legitimate option for people who know something is off but cannot name it.
  • Follow up privately after the meeting; the check-in identifies where support may be needed but is not the support itself.
  • Do not reward upbeat answers or treat a difficult answer as a public discussion prompt.