Using group activities to build individual self-esteem is not only beneficial for the individual participants in the group, but also a great way to improve group dynamics and make it a more positive, supportive environment for all involved. Though some activities are more appropriate for kids or adults, it is possible to find group activities for self-esteem for people of any age. This can be something as simple as standing in a circle and having people state something about themselves that they are proud of, or having each person pay a sincere compliment to someone else in the group. For younger groups, making a game of it might be a more effective way to do this.
The key to using group activities for self-esteem is to make it fun and to avoid, as much as possible, making it feel forced. People should genuinely want to make other people feel good about themselves. It is also important not to make people feel uncomfortable in these group activities. Sometimes, allowing people to participate in the group while still keeping their thoughts private can be very effective. For instance, having people write down things they like about themselves, or draw a positive self-portrait, can help to boost self-esteem; allowing people to keep these things to themselves can increase comfort.
In general, however, the point of group activities for self-esteem is to encourage active participation from everyone, and to break down some of the defenses people have, so they not only feel better about themselves, but also better about participating in the group. One popular, yet relatively simple game is to have each individual in the group write his or her name on a piece of paper. That paper is then passed around the group, and all the other group members will then anonymously write something positive about the person on the piece of paper before it is given back. This is easier for some people than saying things aloud.
Working together to accomplish something also is effective as a group activity for self-esteem; it provides a sense of accomplishment, and really forces people to depend on each other. Ropes courses are especially popular ways of accomplishing this, and are common group activities for kids. In order to successfully complete the obstacle course, it is necessary to work as a team, otherwise the whole group will fail. After the completion of the course, the group can go around and compliment each other on ways they felt the other people excelled.
