Check In · Reflect & Reset
Roller Coaster Position
Choose where you are on the roller coaster—not merely how the ride feels.
Time1–3 minutes
Group size2+ people
FormatIndividual, Table groups, Whole group
MaterialsA roller-coaster image with eight numbered positions
What this accomplishes
A process-focused visual check-in with eight positions: in line, getting strapped in, slow climb, top of the hill, plunge, loop, coasting to the platform, or ready to ride again.
- Give the facilitator a quick read of the room
- Let participants enter the agenda without a long round of updates
Before you begin
Materials
- A roller-coaster image with eight numbered positions
Preparation
- Mark eight positions on one roller-coaster image
- Display the numbered visual
- Plan a silent response method
What to say
“Where are you on the roller coaster today? Choose a number, point, or pass. You do not have to explain the ride.”
How to run it
- 1
Display the numbered roller-coaster positions.
- 2
Give participants ten seconds to choose one.
- 3
Collect a silent point, number, card, or chat response.
- 4
Notice the room's spread and move directly to the agenda.
Prompts to use
Still in line · Getting strapped in · Slow climb · Top of the hill · The plunge · The loop · Coasting in · Back in line
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.
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.
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
Position makes progress, anticipation, overload, and recovery visible without asking people to name an emotion.
Watch out for
- Do not interpret a position aloud for someone else.
- 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.