After incidents or stressful sprints
Questions that acknowledge fatigue, normalize feelings, and transition the group into constructive reflection.
Questions
What is one thing that genuinely supported you this sprint?
Highlight systems, people, or rituals that helped—even small ones. Gratitude without toxic positivity.
One thing you are trying to leave at the door for this hour
Each person names a distraction or worry they will park temporarily. No problem-solving—just acknowledgment.
What would make this retro feel worth it to you?
Quick round: one outcome each person wants from the session—clarity, a decision, venting space, one action.
Share a non-work highlight from the last two weeks
Books, walks, kids, hobbies—anything outside tickets. Keeps the room human before process talk.