The Lifeline Exercise: A Simple Practice for Building Trust, Context, and Connection
by Jenna Cohen, SVP, Team Effectiveness
I recently joined Dane Groeneveld on The Future of Teamwork podcast to talk about what it really means to design the conditions for team effectiveness. We explored everything from new leader assimilations to mid-level alignment, and how trust, rhythm, and reflection can shape the way teams show up for each other, especially during times of change.
One of the practices we discussed is something I use often in my work with teams: the Lifeline, or River of Life, exercise. It’s simple, adaptable, and often leads to some of the most powerful moments of connection I see in a room.
The idea is this:
each person reflects on moments of impact – personal, professional, or formative, that have shaped who they are today. They might sketch a timeline, use symbols or visuals, or jot down key turning points. Then, as a group, we share those stories to be seen more clearly by the people we work alongside.
This creates understanding and empathy. People who’ve worked together for years often learn something new about one another. Teams start to recognize the strengths and “superpowers” their colleagues bring to the team. And we see a shift in the room: from roles and functions to human connection.
This exercise builds professional intimacy: a grounded trust that makes it easier to collaborate, give and receive feedback, and move through uncertainty together.
If you’d like to try this with your team, I’ve put together a short guide that outlines how to create your own Lifeline or River of Life Exercise.
Download the Lifeline Exercise Guide (PDF) here.
Listen to Jenna’s full episode on The Future of Teamwork here.
If you try this with your team, let us know how it goes. And if you’d like support in designing and facilitating experiences like this, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact me directly here.
