Brain Break · Energize
The Stare Down
Try not to laugh, smile, or look away while facing a partner for ninety seconds.
Time1–2 minutes
Group size1–100 people
FormatIndividual, Whole group
MaterialsNone
What this accomplishes
A deliberately pointless middle school challenge: pair off, hold a neutral gaze, and let winners face winners if time allows.
- Interrupt fading attention
- Return the room to the next task quickly
Before you begin
Materials
- None
Preparation
- Set a visible timer
- Choose the seated or low-visibility option you will offer
What to say
“Face a willing partner. First person to laugh, smile, or look away loses. No touching, sounds, faces, or comments—just the stare. Looking at a fixed point instead is always an option.”
How to run it
- 1
Pair students who both choose to participate.
- 2
Start a thirty-second silent round.
- 3
Match winners with winners for a second round if the room can transition quickly.
- 4
Stop at ninety seconds with no final champion required.
Prompts to use
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Run it exactly as written and stop when the timer ends.
Large group
Demonstrate once, start everyone together, and use one unmistakable stop signal.
Virtual
Use voluntary pairs in breakout rooms or have everyone stare at one on-screen dot while trying not to smile.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Offer a fixed-point challenge: stare at a dot, object, or camera lens instead of a person.
- Eye contact is never required.
- Students may time, observe, or pass without explanation.
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
The absurd constraint creates anticipation and laughter without personal disclosure or complicated rules.
Watch out for
- Never require eye contact; stop teasing, gestures, faces, or personal comments immediately.
- Do not attach a lesson, reflection, or public share-out afterward.
- Announce the length, honor it, and move directly into the next task.