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Mad / Sad / Glad

An emotions-first retro: what made us mad, sad, or glad. Great for new teams learning to talk about feelings safely.

Steps

  1. 5 min
    Set the stage

    Explain the three columns and the prime directive.

  2. 10 min
    Silent writing

    Everyone writes moments that made them mad, sad, or glad.

  3. 15 min
    Share stories

    Each person shares their strongest note; listen without fixing.

  4. 10 min
    Find patterns

    Look for recurring themes across the three columns.

  5. 5 min
    Decide actions

    Pick one theme and agree a small, owned improvement.