Rose Bud Thorn
A simple reflection tool using a plant metaphor. Roses represent positives and successes, Thorns represent challenges and pain points, and Buds represent emerging opportunities or ideas not yet fully developed. It works equally well as a retrospective, a design thinking tool, or a quick daily reflection.
How to run it
- 1
Set up three columns or sections labelled Rose, Bud, and Thorn.
- 2
Briefly explain the metaphor: Rose = good things, Thorn = problems, Bud = opportunities.
- 3
Give participants 3–5 minutes to silently write sticky notes for each.
- 4
Participants share their notes one category at a time.
- 5
Cluster similar notes and discuss patterns.
- 6
For retrospectives: agree on actions based on Thorns. For design: use Buds as input for ideation.
Tips
Using three colours of sticky notes (e.g.
red for thorns, green for roses, yellow for buds) makes the board immediately readable.
Great as a closing activity for workshops.
Variations
For personal reflection: use as a journaling prompt. For product reviews: apply to a specific feature or user journey rather than the team process.
Where it fits
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