The world situation remains volatile: global crises, economic uncertainty and social tensions are causing insecurity – not only in our private lives, but also in companies. Managers are increasingly aware that fear and stress affect motivation, collaboration and productivity. But what can be done?
A strong company recognizes that emotional resilience is a crucial factor for performance and stability. Our workshop “Talking openly about fears – building confidence together” offers a structured framework in which employees can reflect on their concerns, share their experiences and develop new perspectives together. This not only strengthens mental health, but also promotes trust, cohesion and a constructive corporate culture.
As a CEO, HR manager or executive, you are sending a strong signal with this initiative: we take our employees' concerns seriously – and we are shaping the future with confidence.
Team intervention for dealing with fear and uncertainty
A workshop lasting 2–3 hours can be a short-term measure to support employees. This could be arranged by the HR department, but any responsible superior could also initiate the measure.
Workshop: “Talking openly about fears – building confidence together”
Total duration: approx. 2.5 hours
Participants: ideally 6–15 people
Objectives:
- openly identify, express and acknowledge fears
- listen to each other and develop understanding
- find and strengthen encouragement and confidence together; not feel alone
Phase 1, what worries me most?
Step 1 – Short introduction (5 minutes)
- Input from the facilitator (prepared on flip chart):
> Explanation of the current global situation (e.g. crises, upheavals, uncertainties).
> Emphasis that worries are normal and justified
Step 2 – Individual reflection (10 minutes)
- Each person answers for themselves in writing (silently, personally):
> What concerns me most at the moment (professionally and personally)?
> How do I personally express my concern/anxiety (physically, mentally, behaviorally)?
Step 3 – Exchange in small groups (3–4 people, 20 minutes)
- Mutual sharing and listening:
> Everyone gets 2–3 minutes to express the most important thoughts.
> Group exchange: Collecting common insights, identifying similarities (15 minutes).
Step 4 – Plenary session (10 minutes)
• Each small group briefly reports on what was mentioned particularly often or is noteworthy.
• The moderator notes the core topics on a flipchart.
⸻
Break (approx. 10 minutes)
• Opportunity for a short rest, drinks, fresh air
⸻
Phase 2: What helps us to take courage? (approx. 45 minutes)
Step 5 – Short input: Finding encouragement (5 minutes)
> Brief suggestion, change of perspective: “In every difficult time, there are aspects from which we can draw strength.”
Step 6 – Personal reflection (10 minutes)
- Everyone writes down for themselves: „What currently gives me support, confidence or encouragement (people, activities, inner convictions)?“
Step 7 – Exchange in small groups (approx. 15 minutes)
- Share personal sources of encouragement in small groups (max. 3–4 people).
> The group selects 2–3 particularly strengthening points.
Step 8– Final plenary session (15 minutes)
• The groups each briefly report on what gives them confidence.
• The moderator creates an “encouragement mosaic” on the flipchart from the most important points.
Final phase: summary and personal transfer (approx. 20 minutes)
- Reflection: Each person thinks of one thing that they will take with them from this workshop.
> Voluntary exchange in plenary (“What am I taking with me today?”)
> The facilitator emphasizes: Perceiving feelings is a strength, not a sign of weakness. Encouragement comes from connection and dialogue.
