Leaky bucket
The therapeutic fairy tale encourages the sharing of stories related to support, belonging, and well-being.
Duration: 100 minutes. 5 minutes for reading the story twice, 20 minutes for introductory discussion, 60 minutes for group conversation, and 15 minutes for the summary.
Difficulty level: 4/5
Number of participants: up to 16 (to allow for groups of no more than 4 people).
Preparation
Use the story “The Leaky Bucket”.
Instructions
Begin by informing participants that you will be reading them the therapeutic story, “Leaky Bucket.”
Afterward, ask them to reflect on the story: What did it mean to them? What emotions did it evoke? What behaviors, attitudes, or needs were present in the story? How do they think an excluded person might feel?
Encourage participants to consider whether they see themselves in the story, particularly through the metaphor of the bucket and the gardener. In their own lives, do they feel more like a leaky bucket or a gardener (new bucket vs. leaky bucket)?
Next, divide participants into small groups of 3-4 people. After listening to the story within a safe, supportive group, invite them to share their thoughts and experiences by reflecting on the following:
When have I felt like a leaky bucket—who was my gardener then?
When was I a gardener for someone—what was that experience like then?
Remind participants that sharing their story in the group or on the forum is entirely optional.
Helpful tips
Participants may engage deeply in the exercise and share very personal stories. It’s crucial to prioritize their well-being and ensure they feel secure – offer emotional support if necessary.
This exercise can serve as an introduction to the exercise, "How the world sees me and how I want it to see me” However, remember to incorporate a break or fun activities to balance the mental intensity and keep energy up.
Wrap-up
Ask participants how it felt to work in groups and what they learned about one another. What personal takeaways do they have from this exercise? Would anyone like to share their story?
Highlight that the metaphor offers a safe space to share personal experiences. Emphasize the importance of finding meaning in our experiences, the role of support from others, and how self-confidence serves as an inner strength that nurtures well-being and self-esteem.