Children know how to make friends. Adults sometimes struggle. This exercise gets social connections down to the basics — essentially a cookie, a compliment, and a smile. Just like kids do in kindergarten. Allowing team members to embrace their sillier side breaks down barriers and brings people together.

For You

When was the last time you made a batch of cookies? For most of us, this was a long time ago. Think about the cookie that you loved as a kid. Find the recipe, get the ingredients, and then spend a day actually baking the cookies. When they come out of the oven, say one nice thing to yourself with each cookie — and then take a scrumptious bite. Feel that inner smile grow…

For Your Team

Bake an extra batch of your favorite cookies for your team. Set up a special Cookie Collective meeting. The rules of the game? Each person picks a cookie, turns to the person on their left, and delivers a cookie — and a compliment. The compliment can simple, such as “I like your shirt.” Or they can be deep, such as “you’re a great friend.” Either way, new bonds are bound to form.