Story of My Name

What This Game Teaches

This exercise helps participants explore identity and personal narrative by telling the story behind their name.  Also builds connection through short personal sharing.  

Group Size

Individuals, pairs, or small groups

Time

10–20 minutes

Energy Level

Low

How to Play

1. Ask participants to reflect on the story of their name. This could include: How they got their name, Who they were named after, A nickname, How their name has changed over time, or A story about mispronunciation or meaning.

2. Have them share their story in pairs or small groups.

3. Optionally, invite a few volunteers to share with the larger group.

Variations

Limit stories to one minute for pacing

Have listeners reflect back what stood out

Connect the story to a larger theme (identity, belonging, change)

Why It Works

Names are deeply personal, but also universally relatable.

This exercise creates an immediate bridge between individual identity and shared human experience. It invites vulnerability in a structured, accessible way.

In storytelling, it demonstrates how even small, everyday details can carry meaning and emotional weight.

Pro Tips

• Model the exercise first by sharing your own story

• Encourage specificity.  Details make the story come alive

• Create a supportive environment for sharing

Origins / References

-Commonly used in storytelling and educational settings to explore identity and connection

Try This In Real Life

Use this as an opening activity in groups to quickly build connection and create a more human, inclusive environment.

Want to help your team build stronger connections through personal storytelling? Learn more about workshops at Your Story, Well Told.