/ˌrɛtrəˈspɛktɪv əˈmiːʒə/
Definition
A chronic agile disorder in which teams enthusiastically identify process improvements during retrospectives, only to forget and repeat the same mistakes in every subsequent sprint. Marked by strong feelings of déjà vu, hollow optimism, and expertly color-coded action items that are never implemented.
Common Manifestations
- A dedicated “Action Items” column in Confluence filled exclusively with good intentions.
- Team notes reading “Communicate more clearly” for the eighth sprint in a row.
- The phrase “We should totally track that next time” spoken with genuine sincerity.
- Sprint boards that look eerily identical, quarter after quarter.
- Facilitators cheerfully saying “Progress isn’t linear” to a team stuck in a perfect loop.
Usage Example
“I think we’ve discussed this exact issue before—oh wait, Retrospective Amnesia strikes again.”
HR Guidance
Retrospective Amnesia is an important component of organizational homeostasis. It maintains morale by recycling hope every two weeks.
Best managed with ritualistic optimism, new Post-it colors, and occasional external consultants to rediscover the same insights in a new font.