2025’s Most In-Demand Scrum Master Certification Programs

In an era characterized by digital transformation and ceaseless innovation, agility is not merely a competitive advantage but a necessity. Organizations that embrace adaptive frameworks like Scrum are better equipped to navigate uncertainty, accelerate delivery, and sustain long-term success. The individuals who orchestrate these agile initiatives—Scrum Masters—serve as catalysts for progress and change. If you are considering a career pivot or upskilling path, earning a Scrum Master certification in 2025 could be one of your most strategic moves.

The relevance of Scrum Master certification in 2025

Scrum Master certifications serve as a formal acknowledgment of your proficiency in Scrum principles, team facilitation, and iterative delivery. Beyond theoretical understanding, they demonstrate your ability to foster cross-functional collaboration, resolve impediments, and guide teams toward delivering continuous value.

In today’s competitive job market, being a certified Scrum Master means more than acquiring a title. It symbolizes a professional ethos centered on adaptability, servant leadership, and value-driven results. As more enterprises prioritize agility, certified Scrum professionals are becoming indispensable.

Career impact and opportunities

One of the most compelling reasons to pursue a Scrum Master certification is career advancement. Whether you’re an experienced project manager transitioning into Agile methodologies or a developer aspiring to influence team processes, a certification provides a legitimate and recognized credential that differentiates you in the job market.

According to surveys from industry job boards, the demand for Scrum Masters continues to rise. Employers seek candidates who understand not only the mechanics of Scrum but also how to lead retrospectives, facilitate planning events, and coach teams on continuous improvement. Certified individuals tend to command higher salaries, enjoy more job security, and are frequently considered for leadership roles in agile transformation projects.

Gaining credibility and alignment with industry standards

Certification from a reputable body gives you more than a line on your resume. It offers access to a structured curriculum, vetted by agile practitioners, and often backed by an international community of learners. This ensures that you’re not only conversant with the Scrum Guide but also exposed to real-world applications and case studies.

In agile environments that employ frameworks like SAFe or LeSS, having a certified Scrum Master on board is invaluable. Your knowledge becomes a bridge that aligns team operations with broader organizational goals, making you a key contributor to scaled agility.

The Scrum Master role in agile teams

The Scrum Master is not a traditional manager but a facilitator, coach, and enabler of teams. They help ensure that the Scrum framework is followed, assist in removing blockers, and cultivate an environment of psychological safety and high performance. While the Product Owner focuses on the what, the Scrum Master emphasizes the how.

A key aspect of the Scrum Master’s role is to serve as a change agent. They mentor the team in self-management and cross-functionality, supporting a culture where continuous improvement is embedded into daily workflows. This unique function places them at the nexus of people, process, and performance.

Scrum Master versus Agile Coach

It’s easy to conflate the Scrum Master with an Agile Coach, but their scopes are distinct. A Scrum Master is typically embedded within one or two teams, ensuring fidelity to Scrum values and practices. They deal with team-level challenges and are hands-on with facilitating ceremonies like standups, sprint planning, and retrospectives.

An Agile Coach operates at a broader organizational level. They may oversee several Scrum Masters, assist in scaling frameworks, and influence enterprise-level change. Agile Coaches often engage in mentoring leadership teams and introducing organization-wide agile principles.

Understanding this distinction is crucial when selecting a certification path. If your goal is to impact team dynamics directly, a Scrum Master certification is the right starting point.

How to choose the right Scrum Master certification

The array of available Scrum certifications can be both a blessing and a challenge. Choosing the right one depends on your career trajectory, experience level, and industry demands. While all credible certifications cover Scrum fundamentals, they vary in terms of content depth, delivery format, and credentialing organization.

Here are a few criteria to guide your decision:

• Accreditation and reputation of the issuing body
• Alignment with your current or target role
• Course format: online, in-person, or hybrid
• Exam structure and difficulty
• Cost and renewal requirements

Popular credentialing bodies include Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, PMI, and Scaled Agile, each offering unique approaches to Scrum education.

Foundational versus advanced certifications

Scrum Master certifications are typically tiered. Foundational courses are ideal for beginners, while advanced options are geared toward seasoned practitioners seeking deeper specialization.

Foundational certifications cover core Scrum values, roles, events, and artifacts. They are ideal for individuals new to agile or those needing a formal introduction to the Scrum framework. These programs often have no prerequisites, making them accessible to a wide audience.

Advanced certifications build upon foundational knowledge. They delve into complex scenarios, servant leadership, systems thinking, and organizational change. These programs are recommended for Scrum Masters with at least one to two years of experience working in agile environments.

Top foundational Scrum Master certifications

While we will examine specific certifications in more depth in Part 2, here are some of the most recognized foundational options:

• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) from Scrum Alliance
• Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) from Scrum.org
• SAFe Scrum Master (SSM) from Scaled Agile
• Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) from PMI

These certifications share a common goal: to introduce learners to the Scrum framework and prepare them to guide agile teams effectively. However, their pedagogical approaches and exam formats differ, which we will analyze in detail in the next installment.

What you’ll learn in a foundational Scrum Master course

Most entry-level Scrum Master programs cover essential topics such as:

• The origins and philosophy of agile and Scrum
• Scrum roles and responsibilities
• Scrum events: Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, and Retrospective
• Scrum artifacts: Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, and Increment
• Definition of Done and acceptance criteria
• Agile estimation and story points
• Facilitation techniques and conflict resolution

Courses may also introduce supplementary topics such as agile metrics, team dynamics, and stakeholder communication.

The learning experience: formats and expectations

The mode of instruction can greatly influence your learning outcomes. Some programs are instructor-led and highly interactive, while others are self-paced and asynchronous. Instructor-led formats often involve group exercises, case studies, and simulations, providing a more immersive learning experience.

Expect to commit between 16 and 24 hours to complete a foundational Scrum Master course, depending on its format. Some courses also require passing a proctored exam to earn the credential. Others may assess participation or project work instead.

Preparing for your Scrum Master exam

Preparation strategies vary depending on the certifying body. However, general recommendations include:

• Thoroughly reviewing the Scrum Guide
• Participating in mock exams or practice tests
• Engaging with online forums and study groups
• Applying Scrum principles in practical settings

Many certification providers offer preparation materials, but it is advisable to explore third-party resources and real-world applications to gain a comprehensive understanding.

Certification renewal and continued learning

Some certifications require periodic renewal, which may involve continuing education units (CEUs) or attending refresher courses. While renewal can be a financial and time investment, it encourages ongoing professional development.

In fast-evolving environments, staying current with agile trends is critical. Renewal processes ensure that your knowledge remains relevant, especially as frameworks evolve or expand.

Looking ahead to advanced pathways

Once you have acquired a foundational credential and gained some hands-on experience, you can consider progressing to intermediate or advanced certifications. These include:

• Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM)
• Certified Scrum Professional – ScrumMaster (CSP-SM)
• Professional Scrum Master II and III (PSM II and III)

These pathways typically require prior certification, a portfolio of experience, and deeper engagement with agile communities. They are ideal for Scrum Masters looking to influence organizational strategy, mentor peers, or step into Agile Coach roles.

Earning a Scrum Master certification in 2025 is more than an academic endeavor. It is a deliberate choice to embrace a mindset of continuous learning, collaborative leadership, and adaptive thinking. As agile principles gain further foothold in diverse industries, certified Scrum Masters will continue to be valued change agents.

we will conduct a detailed comparison of the most popular Scrum Master certifications, analyzing their content, delivery, prerequisites, and pricing to help you make an informed decision.

Comparative Analysis of Top Certifications

Choosing the right Scrum Master certification can be a pivotal decision in your professional journey. With a multitude of options available in 2025, it is essential to compare the most popular certifications to understand their value, structure, and real-world applicability. This part of the series explores the leading Scrum Master certifications, providing a comparative lens to help you make an informed decision.

Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) by Scrum Alliance

Certified ScrumMaster is among the oldest and most widely recognized certifications in the Scrum ecosystem. Offered by Scrum Alliance, this certification serves as an excellent entry point for those new to Scrum or project management.

Overview

The CSM course covers fundamental concepts such as Scrum roles, events, and artifacts. Participants engage in practical exercises that simulate real Scrum scenarios. The course is led by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST), ensuring quality and consistency in instruction.

Key Features

• Instructor-led, typically 2-day training
• Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions
• Passing score: 74 percent
• Renewal every two years with a continuing education requirement
• Includes a two-year Scrum Alliance membership

Ideal for

• Newcomers to Scrum
• Project managers transitioning to agile
• Professionals seeking interactive, instructor-driven learning

Cost

• Course and exam bundle: USD 800 to 1,300 (varies by provider and region)

Professional Scrum Master (PSM I) by Scrum.org

Professional Scrum Master I is offered by Scrum.org, an organization founded by Ken Schwaber, one of the creators of Scrum. PSM I is known for its rigorous assessment and theoretical depth.

Overview

Unlike CSM, PSM I does not require a mandatory training course, making it ideal for self-starters. The exam focuses heavily on the Scrum Guide and tests nuanced understanding of Scrum principles.

Key Features

• No mandatory training required
• Exam: 80 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes
• Passing score: 85 percent
• Lifetime validity

Ideal for

• Self-directed learners
• Professionals with prior Scrum experience
• Those who prefer flexible study schedules

Cost

• Exam fee: USD 150
• Optional courses: USD 1,000 to 1,500

SAFe Scrum Master (SSM) by Scaled Agile

The SAFe Scrum Master certification is part of the Scaled Agile Framework, tailored for large enterprises managing multiple teams.

Overview

This certification integrates Scrum with Lean and Kanban principles, providing a broader context for team-level Scrum Masters working in scaled environments. It includes simulation-based training and exposure to PI (Program Increment) planning.

Key Features

• Required two-day training from a SAFe Program Consultant (SPC)
• Exam: 45 multiple-choice questions
• Passing score: 73 percent
• Valid for one year with annual renewal

Ideal for

• Scrum Masters working in enterprise settings
• Team leads in scaled agile environments
• Professionals seeking alignment with SAFe organizations

Cost

• Training and exam bundle: USD 800 to 1,200
• Annual renewal fee: USD 100

Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) by Project Management Institute

PMI-ACP is not strictly a Scrum Master certification but includes Scrum as one of several agile frameworks. It is broader in scope and recognized globally across industries.

Overview

The PMI-ACP covers agile methodologies including Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and TDD. The certification demands real-world agile experience, making it more advanced than introductory courses.

Key Features

• Requires 2,000 hours of general project experience and 1,500 hours of agile experience
• Exam: 120 multiple-choice questions in 3 hours
• Certification valid for 3 years
• Requires 30 PDUs for renewal

Ideal for

• Experienced professionals with diverse agile exposure
• Those aiming for a versatile, cross-framework credential
• Project managers looking for global recognition

Cost

• Exam fee: USD 435 (PMI members), USD 495 (non-members)
• Renewal fee: USD 60 (members), USD 150 (non-members)

Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) by Scrum Alliance

This certification is for Scrum Masters who already hold a CSM and wish to deepen their expertise.

Overview

The A-CSM goes beyond the basics, focusing on advanced facilitation techniques, coaching methods, and scaling practices. It includes real-world applications and requires active participation in exercises and discussions.

Key Features

• Requires an active CSM certification and 12 months of Scrum experience
• Interactive training format
• No separate exam; assessment is course-based

Ideal for

• Practicing Scrum Masters with experience
• Team leads aiming to coach and mentor
• Professionals preparing for leadership roles in Agile

Cost

• Training programs range from USD 1,200 to 1,600

Accreditation and global recognition

All the certifications listed here are backed by reputable institutions and are recognized internationally. However, Scrum.org’s PSM certifications are often preferred by employers looking for rigor and self-motivated learners, while Scrum Alliance’s CSM is well-known for its community-building approach.

PMI-ACP, with its broad scope, is particularly advantageous for project managers moving across industries. SAFe’s SSM stands out in large organizations implementing agile at scale.

Learning format and exam intensity

If you prefer instructor-led, hands-on learning, certifications like CSM, SSM, or A-CSM are ideal. For those comfortable with self-paced study and high-pressure exams, PSM I and PMI-ACP provide cost-effective, flexible options. The level of difficulty varies, with PSM I and PMI-ACP generally considered more challenging due to their exam structure.

Renewal policies and ongoing learning

Scrum.org stands apart by offering lifetime certifications, eliminating the need for renewal fees or ongoing education. Scrum Alliance, PMI, and Scaled Agile require periodic renewals, encouraging continuous learning and engagement with agile communities.

While renewal can be viewed as a downside, it also presents an opportunity to stay current with evolving practices and maintain active involvement in the professional ecosystem.

Making your decision

Selecting the right Scrum Master certification is ultimately a function of your goals, budget, and learning preferences. Consider the following when choosing:

• Are you new to Scrum or already experienced?
• Do you thrive in structured, instructor-led formats or prefer independent study?
• Are you working in or targeting enterprise-scale environments?
• Do you plan to specialize in coaching or broaden into multiple agile frameworks?

Answering these questions will narrow your options and align your certification path with your aspirations.

In 2025, becoming a certified Scrum Master remains a high-value investment in professional development. Whether you’re beginning your agile journey or seeking advanced expertise, the landscape of certifications offers something for every stage and ambition.

In Part 3 of this series, we’ll dive into preparation strategies, study plans, and real-world tips to help you succeed in whichever Scrum Master certification you pursue. Stay tuned.

Preparation Strategies and Exam Success Tips

After choosing the right Scrum Master certification, the next critical step is preparing effectively to pass the exam and retain practical knowledge. Whether you have opted for Certified ScrumMaster, Professional Scrum Master I, SAFe Scrum Master, PMI-ACP, or the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster, strategic preparation is vital. This final part of the series provides essential guidance on exam preparation, recommended study methods, and tips to succeed.

Understand the exam structure and expectations

Before starting your study, familiarize yourself with the structure, question formats, timing, and passing criteria of the certification exam you’ve selected. This reduces exam-day surprises and informs your preparation strategy.

• CSM: 50 questions in 60 minutes, multiple-choice
• PSM I: 80 questions in 60 minutes, multiple-choice
• SSM: 45 questions in 90 minutes, multiple-choice
• PMI-ACP: 120 questions in 180 minutes, scenario-based and multiple-choice
• A-CSM: Course-based assessment without a formal exam

Knowing what types of questions to expect helps in aligning your study materials and practice exams accordingly.

Read the official guides and manuals

Each certifying body provides core documentation that serves as the foundational text for its exams:

• Scrum Guide (Scrum.org)
• SAFe Scrum Master Workbook (Scaled Agile)
• PMI Agile Practice Guide (PMI-ACP)
• CSM Course Workbook (from authorized training)

Reading and re-reading these materials enhances comprehension and reinforces critical terminology and frameworks.

Use mock tests and practice quizzes

Practice exams and quizzes simulate real test conditions, allowing you to measure your progress. They help identify knowledge gaps and improve your time management. Numerous free and paid resources offer realistic sample questions aligned with each certification’s format.

Recommended platforms for mock tests include:

• Open practice assessments from Scrum.org (for PSM I)
• PMI-ACP mock exams from reputable training providers
• Practice quizzes available in online forums or study groups

Aim to take at least 3 to 5 full-length mock exams before your certification test. Analyze your incorrect answers to identify weak topics.

Join study groups and communities

Engaging with fellow learners is one of the most effective ways to deepen your understanding. Communities allow you to:

• Share resources and notes
• Ask and answer difficult questions
• Gain motivation and accountability

Online forums such as LinkedIn groups, Reddit communities, and dedicated Scrum or Agile meetups provide a collaborative environment for interactive learning.

Enroll in preparatory workshops or bootcamps

For certifications like CSM, A-CSM, or SSM, participation in instructor-led training is mandatory. However, even for optional courses like PSM I or PMI-ACP, attending a structured workshop or bootcamp can be immensely helpful.

Workshops often include:

• Live Q&A sessions with experienced coaches
• Group activities and simulations
• Immediate feedback on exercises

Such experiences reinforce practical understanding and enable you to clarify ambiguities in real time.

Create a tailored study plan

Based on your current level of experience and familiarity with Agile or Scrum, develop a personalized study roadmap. Consider the following timelines:

• Beginners: 4 to 6 weeks of study, 1 to 2 hours daily
• Intermediate: 3 to 4 weeks, 1 hour daily
• Advanced (for A-CSM or PMI-ACP): 6 to 8 weeks, with emphasis on case studies and hands-on work

Your plan should include:

• Daily reading assignments
• Weekly mock tests
• Flashcard reviews
• Scheduled rest and revision days

Tracking progress with a checklist or spreadsheet helps maintain momentum and spot areas needing more focus.

Focus on practical application, not just theory

Scrum is best understood through practice. Try applying Scrum concepts at work or in simulated projects. Volunteering as a Scrum Master in a side project or within a small team is an excellent way to:

• Understand how roles and ceremonies function in real settings
• Develop servant leadership and facilitation skills
• Gain situational insight that textbooks can’t offer

Practical experience will not only help you pass the exam but also prepare you to apply Scrum principles effectively after certification.

Avoid common pitfalls

Several missteps can undermine your preparation:

• Over-reliance on dumps or memorization: These methods may help with passing but provide no real understanding.
• Ignoring the official guide: Always anchor your study on the most authoritative source.
• Last-minute cramming: Start early to avoid burnout and anxiety.
• Skipping practice: Without mock tests, it’s difficult to gauge readiness.

Discipline, consistency, and curiosity are better allies than shortcuts.

Manage exam-day strategy

Once prepared, your final hurdle is the exam itself. To perform your best:

• Get a good night’s sleep before the test
• Ensure your test environment is quiet and uninterrupted (especially for online proctored exams)
• Read each question carefully, watching for subtle wording
• Use elimination methods when unsure
• Flag difficult questions and return to them later

Many exams are passable with solid preparation, but mental clarity and focus can make a significant difference.

Maintain your certification and continue learning

Passing the exam is not the end. Most certifications require renewal through continuous education or professional development units:

• CSM and A-CSM: Renew every 2 years with SEUs (Scrum Education Units)
• PMI-ACP: 30 PDUs every 3 years
• SSM: Renew annually with learning activities

Keep a record of workshops, webinars, and relevant training sessions. Stay active in your community, participate in agile events, and consider mentoring others.

Suggested tools and resources

To support your preparation journey, consider integrating the following tools:

• Trello or Notion for planning your study schedule
• Quizlet for creating flashcards
• Zoom or Microsoft Teams for study group discussions
• Miro for visualizing workflows and Scrum boards

These tools can enhance comprehension, facilitate collaboration, and keep your preparation organized.

Achieving a Scrum Master certification in 2025 is both a milestone and a springboard. Whether you’re just beginning or leveling up your agile career, thoughtful preparation and real-world application make all the difference. By selecting the right certification and implementing a disciplined strategy, you equip yourself not only to pass the exam but to lead and inspire agile teams effectively.

Career Outcomes and Industry Demand

While certifications validate knowledge and build credibility, the true value of a Scrum Master certification lies in how it propels your career. This additional part of the series delves into the professional benefits, career growth, job market demand, and real-world impact of becoming a certified Scrum Master in 2025.

Why certification matters in today’s agile job market

Organizations worldwide are embracing Agile to respond quickly to market changes, improve product quality, and foster cross-functional collaboration. Certified Scrum Masters play a pivotal role in orchestrating Agile transformation. Companies increasingly prefer certified candidates for their demonstrable understanding of Scrum principles, ability to facilitate team productivity, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Certifications offer tangible proof of your expertise. They assure employers that you are capable of upholding Scrum values and applying its framework effectively in diverse business environments.

Career paths available to certified Scrum Masters

Scrum Master roles are often stepping stones to more advanced or specialized careers. Depending on your experience and interests, you can branch into roles such as:

• Agile Coach
• Product Owner
• Program Manager
• Release Train Engineer (in SAFe environments)
• Project Manager (Agile-focused)
• Enterprise Agile Transformation Lead

The certification serves as a foundational layer on which broader leadership or consultancy roles can be built, especially when combined with additional domain knowledge or management training.

Salary expectations and earning potential

Salaries for Scrum Masters and Agile professionals vary based on geography, experience, industry, and certification level. However, industry data indicates strong earning potential:

• Entry-level Scrum Master: $75,000 – $95,000 per year
• Mid-level (3–5 years experience): $95,000 – $115,000 per year
• Senior Scrum Master or Agile Coach: $120,000 – $150,000+ per year

Certifications such as PMI-ACP, SAFe SSM, and advanced credentials like A-CSM often correlate with higher compensation, as they signify deeper expertise and leadership capabilities.

Industries and sectors hiring certified Scrum Masters

Scrum is not limited to software development. Certified Scrum Masters are in demand across various industries that prioritize innovation, iterative development, and cross-functional teamwork:

• Technology and software firms
• Financial services and fintech
• Healthcare and pharmaceutical industries
• Telecommunications
• Retail and e-commerce
• Government and public sector (especially with scaled agile)
• Education and ed-tech companies

This cross-industry applicability ensures that Scrum Master certifications are not confined to niche markets but relevant across the modern professional landscape.

Freelancing and consulting opportunities

Certified Scrum Masters also have the option to work independently as Agile consultants or contractors. Freelance opportunities often involve:

• Helping startups implement Agile frameworks
• Training and mentoring internal Scrum teams
• Assisting in Agile tool adoption (e.g., Jira, Azure DevOps)
• Conducting workshops and Agile maturity assessments

Freelancers with strong portfolios and multiple certifications can command premium rates. This path suits professionals seeking flexibility, variety, and autonomy.

Job market trends and hiring outlook for 2025

In 2025, hiring for Scrum roles is expected to grow steadily. Remote work continues to expand global talent pools, increasing both competition and opportunities. Organizations are looking for Scrum Masters who can work across distributed teams, manage cultural differences, and utilize virtual collaboration tools efficiently.

Key trends include:

• Increased demand for hybrid skillsets (e.g., Scrum + UX, Scrum + DevOps)
• More organizations adopting scaled agile (driving demand for SAFe-certified professionals)
• Greater emphasis on soft skills like facilitation, coaching, and conflict resolution

Job seekers who combine technical proficiency with excellent interpersonal skills and continuous learning habits will be especially competitive.

How to stand out as a Scrum Master candidate

Certification alone is no longer a differentiator—it’s the baseline. To truly stand out:

• Build a strong LinkedIn profile with quantified achievements
• Contribute to Agile forums and communities
• Create a portfolio of Agile practices, including case studies and team metrics
• Collect testimonials from colleagues or stakeholders
• Maintain a learning habit through new credentials or micro-certifications

Storytelling is powerful. Being able to share your real-world experiences, challenges overcome, and team successes demonstrates your practical value.

Global opportunities and remote work

Scrum’s global relevance makes it possible to work with international teams or relocate. Many companies are hiring Scrum Masters for remote roles that span different time zones and cultural contexts.

Certifications from global bodies like Scrum.org, PMI, or Scaled Agile carry international recognition, making you eligible for roles far beyond your local market.

To succeed in such positions, it’s helpful to gain familiarity with:

• Cross-border communication practices
• Remote facilitation tools like Mural, Miro, and Zoom
• Working in asynchronous Agile environments

The more adaptable and culturally aware you are, the more employable you become across global Agile ecosystems.

Value to organizations

From the employer’s perspective, hiring certified Scrum Masters brings several advantages:

• Quicker onboarding and productivity
• Greater team cohesion and conflict management
• Improved delivery timelines and stakeholder satisfaction
• Higher Agile maturity across departments

Companies seeking to scale Agile benefit from professionals who can coach teams, foster ownership, and embed Agile principles into organizational culture.

Final recommendations for career-minded professionals

If your goal is long-term career advancement, not just passing an exam, consider these recommendations:

• Pair your certification with soft skills training in communication, coaching, and emotional intelligence
• Seek mentorship from experienced Agile leaders
• Document your learnings through blogs, talks, or video content
• Look beyond frameworks: study Agile mindset, lean thinking, and systems design

Becoming a high-impact Scrum Master is an evolving journey. Stay curious, adaptive, and committed to delivering value at every step.

Conclusion

Scrum Master certifications are more than paper credentials; they are catalysts for professional transformation. As Agile continues to dominate global project landscapes in 2025 and beyond, certified professionals who pair expertise with empathy, agility with insight, and process with people will shape the future of work.

This final addition concludes the extended series. Whether you’re aspiring to lead Agile teams or spearhead enterprise transformation, the path begins with your decision to grow—and continues through every sprint that follows.