In discussions concerning the Stages of Team Development, Storming is often described as a dreary stage where skills and enthusiasm are low, and the team is in severe conflict. However, is the Storming stage always negative? Here at The Quest, we would argue “no”. Storming is vital to Team Development, and is often the most productive Stage.
Consider the Margaret Heffernan quote “for good ideas and true innovation, you need human interaction, conflict, argument, [and] debate.” Human interaction, conflict, argument, and debate are all signs of the Storming stage, and without these key components, new ideas and concepts would not be generated. If Storming were a recipe, it would look like this:
- 3 liters Human Interaction
- 4 tablespoons of Conflict
- 1 pinch of Argument
- 1 ¾ cups of Debate
1. First, pour 3 liters of Human Interaction into a mixing bowl. Human Interaction is key, because human beings can bounce ideas off each other like no other. Humans inspire each other to be better, work harder, and become more innovative.
2. Carefully mix in 4 tablespoons of Conflict. Conflict, when combined with Human Interaction, is necessary to creating new and innovative ideas. This is because Conflict forces people to consider new perspectives on ideas, and the reevaluate their own perspective.
3. Sprinkle in 1 pinch of Argument. Argument may not have the best flavor on its own, but often occurs when generating new concepts. Not to worry – its flavor will be sweetened in the end!
4. Whip in 1 ¾ cups of debate. Debate is the final ingredient, because it allows people to respectfully voice their opinions about a subject, such as a vision, and come up with the best idea or solution.
5. Finally, pour into an 8 inch round pan, and let bake until the new idea, concept, vision, or other piece of innovation is golden-brown. Let cool, and enjoy in the Norming and Performing Stages!
To put it simply, Storming is vital to the creation of new ideas. Embrace Storming for the positive process that it is, and happy baking!
