Retrospective ++

Retrospective ++ is a format designed to boost team morale by placing the spotlight firmly on positive aspects. When a team needs motivation and energy, this format delivers.

The four columns are all framed positively, creating an uplifting atmosphere:

• Strong 💪: What made us strong? The practices, decisions, or collaborations that gave the team its strength and resilience.
• Energy ⚡: What gave us energy? The motivating factors - successes, fun moments, or breakthroughs that energized the team.
• Appreciation 🙏: What did we appreciate? Recognition of people, support, tools, or circumstances that the team is grateful for.
• Wish ✨: What do we wish for? Aspirations and hopes for the future - improvements or changes the team would like to see.

The genius of this format is that even the improvement dimension ("Wish") is framed positively. Instead of focusing on problems, the team expresses desires and aspirations, which naturally leads to constructive and forward-looking action items.

This format is particularly recommended when:

• The team has gone through a difficult period and needs encouragement
• Morale is low and traditional retrospectives feel too problem-focused
• You want to reinforce positive team dynamics and celebrate achievements

The session concludes with concrete actions that build on the team's strengths rather than just fixing weaknesses.