That Reminds Me of the Time

What This Game Teaches

This exercise helps participants build associative thinking and discover personal stories by connecting ideas, moments, and experiences in a natural, conversational way.

Group Size

Pairs or small groups

Time

10–15 minutes

Energy Level

Low to Medium

How to Play

1. One participant starts by sharing a short story or statement.

2. The next person begins their response with, “That reminds me of the time…” and shares a related story.

3. Continue around the group, with each story inspired by the previous one.

4. Keep transitions quick and intuitive rather than overthought.

   
   

Variations

Limit each story to one minute

Turn it into a fast-paced circle exercise

After several rounds, have participants reflect on which story had the strongest impact

Why It Works

Storytelling is often about association. One memory leads to another.

This exercise helps participants access stories they didn’t know they had by following natural connections. It mirrors how conversations unfold in real life and trains the brain to retrieve relevant, meaningful stories quickly.

It also builds a storytelling habit: noticing moments and linking them to broader themes.

Pro Tips

• Encourage quick transitions.  Don’t overthink the connection

• Remind participants that the link can be emotional, thematic, or even abstract

• Keep the energy moving to avoid long pauses

  
  

Origins / References

-Inspired by associative storytelling techniques commonly used in improv and conversation-based narrative exercises.

-Expanded explanation in the book “Your Story Well Told” by Corey Rosen

Try This In Real Life

In conversations, notice when something “reminds you of a time” and share it.  It’s one of the most natural ways to connect through story.

Want to become a more natural, engaging storyteller in everyday conversations? Explore workshops and coaching at Your Story, Well Told.