The Stages of a Group
I have this theory that most events, including the global pandemic we are in, follow the stages of group development. First defined in 1965 by Bruce Tuckman, the stages bring language to experience. Each stage is a necessary element to effective team-building, problem-solving and ultimately, innovation. The original four stages are: forming, storming, norming and performing, with later iterations including “mourning” and “transforming.”
Much like we “formed” when this global predicament started, banding together via social media, reminding each other to stay apart and wash our hands, we have also independently and collectively encountered our own “storms” - lack of PPE, loved ones in the hospital, protests from community members and our children begging for “normal.”
Some have entered the “norming” phase by choosing to adapt, assume roles of leadership and taking a seat at home to figure it all out. We literally and figuratively witnessed “performing” with the “One World: Together” concert and also recognize this stage by the valor of our healthcare workers and the strength of our communities.
The stages, although described in a linear manner, are cyclical. We may experience all of them within a few moments or one stage over the course of days or weeks. I have seen the stages of a group unravel in a weekend with family and while traveling abroad for two weeks with students and educators. I watch the stages play out now with the situation we are in. (I am trying to avoid the word “crisis,” because this time is graced with opportunity and the word “unprecedented,” because it is simply overused.)
The key to unlocking each stage is to experience it whole-heartedly. Accept when something is new and uncomfortable. Recognize when a storm has hit. Take shelter, but step out in the rain every now and then. You will be nourished by it, even if you get wet. Own your part in the story. Step into a role that serves you and help others to do the same. Listen to ideas. Notice what has come of the first three phases and be empowered by what you can create. Perform. Recognize your strengths and look to others to compensate for your limitations. Know your success is temporary. You may have to go through another storm and yet another one. But you are resilient and you can do hard things.*
We must name the stage we are in and become immersed in the experience, pressing on and taking each new day as it comes, whatever phase we are in.
We will get through this, together.
*I’m not sure if she’s trademarked this, but “we can do hard things,” is a familiar phrase from Glennon Doyle.
Hi! I’m Susan.
I am a Success Consultant for business professionals, entrepreneurs and educators. I support my clients through coaching, training and content development as they develop strategies to empower positive growth.
I love to write, so thank you for being here. Enjoy!
