Mad Sad Glad
Mad Sad Glad is an example of an organization tool that is employed by a team in order to encourage discussion of pertinent issues. It is a great way to list down all the strengths that a team exhibits and address all the problems that are faced when time comes to work as a cohesive unit. If carried out successfully, Mad Sad Glad can often be a source of team satisfaction, a positive team dynamic and good morale since it promotes cooperation instead of dissent and frustration.
What is Mad Sad Glad?
Mad Sad Glad is a team organization tool used to encourage discussion of important issues. It provides a way to identify the strengths of a team and address any problems they face while working together. When used effectively, Mad Sad Glad can improve team satisfaction, morale, and teamwork.
How it works
- List events, issues or observations under the categories of "mad", "sad", or "glad" based on how they made team members feel.
- Emphasize listing behaviors or events, not blaming individuals.
- Initiate discussion through a voting process, starting with the topic that receives the highest number of votes.
- End the activity by discussing all the listed issues and proposing solutions if necessary.
Examples of Mad Sad Glad
- Mad: Lack of equal contribution, Inefficient communication, Lack of helpful feedback, Frequent unnecessary meetings.
- Sad: Not knowing the value of work being completed, Hard work not acknowledged, Difficulty communicating, Difficulty gelling as a team.
- Glad: Great team performance, Receiving team support, Flexibility in working hours, Innovative ideas and discussions.
How to run a Mad Sad Glad retrospective
- Gather team members and key stakeholders.
- Set ground rules: no blame, judgement, doubt, or negativity. Focus on a growth mindset, optimism, open-mindedness, and a psychologically-safe environment.
- Collect answers from team members on: what worked well, what didn't work well, and what solutions to improve the situation.
- Transfer answers to an online platform to create a chart.
- Discuss each topic one by one until all have been addressed.
Benefits of Mad Sad Glad
- Improves team dynamic and function.
- Provides a fun bonding exercise.
