The goal of "Hot Air Balloon" is to foster critical thinking, teamwork, and decision-making skills as participants work together to make difficult choices under pressure. The activity emphasizes the importance of prioritization and consensus-building.

"Hot Air Balloon" is an engaging decision-making exercise where participants imagine themselves as passengers in a hot air balloon that is losing altitude. To stay afloat, they must first decide which items to throw overboard. After this, they must make the even harder decision of which people to throw overboard. The group must work together to prioritize and make difficult decisions to ensure their survival.

Divide participants into groups of 10. If you have more participants, create multiple groups, each with 10 people. Assign each participant a role and provide them with a character description. Hand out cards listing the items found in the balloon.

Begin reading the scenario to the group. Make sure to set the scene vividly to capture their attention. Emphasize the urgency of the situation to ensure everyone understands the gravity of their decisions.

As you read the scenario, guide participants through each stage of the decision-making process. Give them the designated time to make their decisions as described in the story. Encourage open discussion and debate among participants as they decide which items to discard first. Ensure everyone has the opportunity to present their arguments and vote on the decisions.

Conclude the activity by discussing the decisions made. Encourage participants to reflect on the process, the arguments presented, and the outcomes. Allow them to share their thoughts and feelings about the exercise.

• Use a timer to keep the activity on track and emphasize the urgency of the situation.
• Facilitate the discussions neutrally, ensuring everyone has an equal chance to speak.
• Be prepared to manage emotions, as the activity can evoke strong feelings.