Rethinking Agile Principle #8: Sustainable (S)pace in a Hurried World

Thinking Fast

Do you remember the 8th principle of the Manifesto for Agile Software Development? “Agile processes promote sustainable development. The sponsors, developers, and users should be able to maintain a constant pace indefinitely.” However, amidst the flurry of deadlines and deliverables, we often find ourselves trapped in a system that prioritizes endless economic growth over mindful reflection. The Agile community prides itself on its reflective nature, embracing practices like retrospectives to continuously improve and adapt. In a 1.5-hour retrospective, teams are more likely to talk about how they can improve their estimation accuracy or engagement in Daily Scrums than think about the impact of their product on the climate or biodiversity. The SAFe framework includes dedicated Innovation and Planning Iteration (IP) time for innovation and continuing education. While this provision exists on paper, it is often underutilized, overshadowed by the pressure to deliver results within tight timelines. Rarely do teams seize the opportunity to step back, question basic assumptions and reflect on the bigger picture.

In the whirlwind of activity, the notion of creating sustainable (s)pace may seem like a luxury we can hardly afford. Yet, it becomes increasingly apparent that sustainability requires a profound transformation. It requires us to re-think everything: our product development and production, our business models and strategies, the way we collaborate with partners along the value chain, our beliefs, and our habits.

The Need for Space

In his book "Think Again", author Adam Grant emphasizes the importance of creating space for reflection and deliberation. Grant suggests that rushing to conclusions or decisions without adequate time for thoughtful consideration can lead to errors in judgment or missed opportunities for innovation. He advocates for taking the time to pause, step back, and reconsider assumptions before moving forward, whether it's in making individual decisions or shaping organizational strategies.?

Recently, I embarked on a training for Mindfulness Based Sustainability Transformation. One profound insight that emerges from this exploration is the pivotal role of space in fostering sustainability in all its dimensions. I was deeply inspired by a talk given by Thomas Hübl, a renowned teacher, author, and international facilitator known for his groundbreaking work at the intersection of spirituality, psychology, and social activism. Hübl's teachings emphasize the importance of creating space for reflection, learning, and integration in navigating the complexities of the modern world. Hübl articulated that space is not merely a physical entity but a profound practice—an intentional carving out of time and energy for reflection, learning, and integration. Space is an important aspect to embrace complexity. Without this, the complexity we see in the multiple crises of today, can be overwhelming. When we allow ourselves space, we create fertile ground for growth and evolution. It's in these moments of spaciousness that we can digest our experiences, integrate our learnings, and nurture our resilience.

Practical Habits

So, how can we cultivate this art of creating a sustainable (s)pace in our lives and daily routines? It begins with a willingness to challenge the status quo—to question the relentless pursuit of productivity and embrace the value of slowness. Here are some practical habits to help us reclaim our space:

• Mindful Meditation: Carve out a few minutes each day to sit in quiet contemplation, allowing your mind to settle and your awareness to expand.
• Journaling: Set aside time to reflect on your experiences, jotting down your thoughts, feelings, and insights. Writing can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and integration.

• Nature Walks: Take leisurely strolls in nature, immersing yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the natural world. Allow yourself to be fully present in each moment, savoring the sights, sounds, and sensations around you.
• Digital Detox: Create boundaries around your use of technology, setting aside designated times for email, social media, and other digital distractions. Give yourself permission to unplug and disconnect, even if only for brief intervals.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine, whether it's getting enough sleep, nourishing your body with healthy food, or engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

How can we integrate these insights into our Agile practices and foster a culture of sustainable (s)pace within our teams?

• One Minute to Arrive: This practice for groups can support becoming present and focused. It can be a useful tool when starting a meeting at work, or whenever you begin a new work task with others.
• Reimagining Retrospectives: Rather than viewing retrospectives as mere check-ins for local optimization, expand their scope from time to time to include discussions on purpose, vision, and long-term goals.?
• Collaborating on Sustainability: Create space for team members to reflect on the broader implications of their work and to engage in cross-functional sustainability activities.?
• Embracing Purposeful Innovation: Encourage team members to listen to sustainability related customer problems and brainstorm innovative solutions that address both technical requirements and sustainability considerations.
• Challenging Assumptions: Finally, embrace the ethos of "Think Again" by challenging our assumptions and embracing diverse perspectives. Encourage healthy debate and constructive feedback, recognizing that true innovation often arises from the friction of conflicting ideas.

Examples for Company-Wide Mindfulness Programs

You think “This will never work in my company”? My former colleague from Allianz, Christoph Müller-H?cker , is now Allianz Group Mindfulness Lead. In one of his recent LinkedIn Posts , he quotes "... the Allianz Mindfulness Movement provides science-based trainings and interventions to enhance focus, resilience, and well-being for employees. Notably, more than 1,800 employees have participated in the Emotional Intelligence Trainings known as “Search Inside Yourself”.

Also SAP has recognised these benefits for some time now. Launched in 2012 as a grassroots initiative by a small number of employees, the mindfulness and emotional intelligence programme is now a central part of SAP's culture. The Global Mindfulness Practice Community is supported by over 140 internal Mindfulness Teachers and Ambassadors. More than 15,000 employees have already completed the 16-hour training (virtual or on-site). The website offers videos for simple integrated mindfulness practices like Three Breaths and Mindful Walking.

Developing Resilience

As we commit to these practices, we begin to reclaim our agency over our time and energy, cultivating a sustainable rhythm that honors both our individual needs and the greater ecosystem of which we are a part. Ultimately, we can only sustain the world around us when we nurture the world within us. It's about recognizing that true resilience arises not from perpetual motion but from the ability to find stillness amidst the storm.

Do you often feel under time pressure? Which of your habits contribute to this? How do you make space for reflection?