What is the Mad Sad Glad retrospective?

The mad sad glad retrospective frames discussion around the emotional journey of by your team during the previous sprint, and is a great way to identify opportunities to improve team morale and job satisfaction. The retrospective asks participants to share what made them feel frustrated or annoyed (mad), disappointed (sad) and what made them feel happy or proud (glad). This mad sad glad style retrospective encourages your team to be more emotionally-aware to help build a positive team dynamic, and provides an opportunity to reflect on issues and opportunities from a different perspective. It is important you remember the retrospective prime directive and focus on events, behaviours and processes – not on assigning blame or ‘guilting’ individuals. By regularly conducting Mad Sad Glad retrospectives, teams can continuously improve, build trust, and maintain a healthy team dynamic focused on growth.

Mad Sad Glad retrospective format

Mad What is driving you crazy?: The 'Mad' section allows team members to vent frustrations in a constructive way. As the facilitator, create a safe space for open and honest discussion, without judgment. Remind participants to discuss issues objectively, focusing on processes and events rather than individuals. Capture key points and look for patterns or root causes behind the frustrations.
Sad What is disappointing you?: The 'Sad' section allows participants to share their disappointments, whether related to the team, processes, or outcomes. Encourage team members to be vulnerable and share their genuine feelings. Look for opportunities to improve team dynamics, communication, or processes based on the disappointments raised.
Glad What is making you happy?: The 'Glad' section is an opportunity to celebrate wins, successes, and positive experiences from the recent sprint or project. Encourage participants to share specific examples and call out individuals or the entire team for exceptional work. This helps boost morale and reinforces positive behaviors and practices.

When to use this retrospective

To promote transparency and open discussion within an agile team after completing a sprint or project.
To surface areas for improvement, frustrations, and sources of dissatisfaction in a constructive manner.
To celebrate successes, positive experiences, and exceptional work from the team.
To maintain a healthy team dynamic focused on continuous improvement and growth.
To gather diverse perspectives and create a safe space for honest feedback.

Ideas and tips for your retrospective meeting

Set a positive tone and create a safe, judgment-free environment for open and honest discussion.
Encourage participation from all team members, including introverts and new hires.
Look for patterns and root causes behind frustrations or disappointments raised.
Avoid getting defensive or making excuses - focus on understanding different perspectives.
Capture key points and action items, but don't try to solve every issue during the retrospective.
End on a positive note by discussing 'Glad' items and recognizing exceptional work.

New to retrospectives? Read our guide on how to run a retrospective →

Mad Sad Glad Retrospective

What is the Mad Sad Glad retrospective?