The Wu Kong Retrospective is inspired by the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West' and the mischievous Monkey King. This playful template encourages teams to explore their recent challenges and successes through the metaphor of an epic adventure.
Just as the Monkey King encountered obstacles and learned valuable lessons on his pilgrimage, teams can gain insights from reviewing their own 'journey' and the trials they overcame. This template fosters a spirit of curiosity, resilience, and continuous improvement.
What is The Wu Kong Retrospective
Mischievous Moments
Like the Monkey King's playful antics, what unexpected events or 'mischief' did you encounter?
Encourage participants to share light-hearted stories or moments that surprised them, even if they initially seemed disruptive. Look for opportunities to reframe challenges as learning experiences.
Formidable Foes
What daunting challenges or 'demons' did you face on your journey?
Invite the team to openly discuss significant obstacles, failures, or setbacks they encountered. Emphasize that facing difficulties is natural and focusing on how they responded can lead to growth.
Enlightening Experiences
What profound insights or 'wisdom' did you gain along the way?
Prompt participants to share significant realizations, lessons learned, or new perspectives they developed during the retrospective period. Celebrate growth and self-awareness.
Sacred Sanctuaries
What practices, processes or 'havens' provided strength and refuge?
Identify the team's reliable practices, efficient processes, or supportive environments that helped them persevere through challenges. Reinforce these positive elements.
Suggested Icebreaker Questions
- If you could have a magical cloud like the Monkey King to travel anywhere, where would you go?
- What supernatural power or ability would you want to have on an epic adventure?
Ideas and Tips for Your Retrospective Meeting
- Encourage participants to embrace the metaphor and share stories in an engaging, narrative style.
- Use imagery or props related to the Monkey King story to set the tone and spark creativity.
- Celebrate both the team's mischievous moments and profound insights - growth often comes from unexpected places.
- Look for opportunities to reframe challenges as learning experiences and sources of wisdom.
- Remind the team that every journey has obstacles, but facing them with courage and an open mind leads to personal and professional growth.
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