Group Flow
A collective state where teams experience synchrony, optimal performance, and shared engagement.
Also known as: Team flow, Collective flow, Collaborative flow
Category: Concepts
Tags: collaboration, flow, performance, teams, creativity
Explanation
Group flow extends the individual flow concept to teams - a collective state where members experience synchrony, heightened performance, and shared immersion in the work. Keith Sawyer's research identifies conditions for group flow: shared goal, close listening, complete concentration, sense of control, blending of egos, equal participation, familiarity, constant communication, and moving the action forward. When achieved, group flow produces: exceptional performance, innovative solutions, and intense satisfaction. It differs from individual flow by requiring: coordination of individual states, mutual responsiveness, and shared rather than solo activity. Group flow is more fragile than individual flow - disruption by any member affects all. It's more common in: creative collaboration, sports teams, musical groups, and high-performing work teams. For knowledge workers, creating conditions for group flow means: protecting collaborative time, establishing shared language, and building team trust and familiarity.
Related Concepts
← Back to all concepts