What is Mad Sad Glad Retrospective?

The Mad Sad Glad Retrospective is a simple yet powerful technique used in Agile to help teams reflect on their recent sprint or project. It fosters open communication and insights into team emotions, often driving productivity and collaboration. By focusing on what made team members feel mad, sad, or glad, this retrospective creates a space for meaningful conversations and actionable improvements.

What Is the Mad Sad Glad Retrospective?

At its core, the Mad Sad Glad Retrospective is a framework that helps Agile teams identify and understand their emotions during a specific period. Emotions play a significant role in how teams function, and this method allows members to share their feelings constructively. Categorizing experiences under these three emotions highlights pain points, unmet expectations, and causes for celebration.

Here’s how the three categories work:

Mad

Events, behaviors, or decisions that frustrated or angered team members.

Sad

Situations that caused disappointment or letdowns.

Glad 

Positive moments or successes that brought joy or satisfaction.

By exploring these areas, teams can recognize patterns and improve both processes and morale.

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How to Conduct a Mad Sad Glad Retrospective

Set the Stage

Begin by explaining the purpose of the activity and creating a safe, non-judgmental environment. This ensures honest participation.

Categorize Feedback

Use a board or digital tool divided into three columns—Mad, Sad, and Glad. Team members write down their thoughts and feelings for each category on sticky notes or virtual cards.

Group Discussion

Once everyone has contributed, discuss each category in turn. Look for common themes, underlying causes, and actionable items.

Take Action

Agree on steps to address the Mad and Sad items while celebrating Glad moments. This balance keeps the team motivated and focused on improvement.

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Why Use the Mad Sad Glad Retrospective?

Encourages Emotional Transparency 

Helps team members feel heard and understood.

Identifies Key Insights

Reveals hidden challenges and opportunities for growth.

Fosters Continuous Improvement

Drives better teamwork by addressing emotional blockers.

Conclusion

By incorporating the Mad Sad Glad Retrospective into your Agile practices, you create a foundation for open communication and long-term success. Start your next retrospective with this method and experience the difference it can make for your team.