The Science of Team Flow
Hi there,
In the past few weeks, I’ve been speaking with a number of senior leaders who are leading significant organisational change. New structures, new reporting lines, and — crucially — newly formed teams.
And it’s reminded me of something I learned very early on in my corporate career.
Back then, fresh-faced and right out of university, I was involved in organisational change and the bulk of my focus was on getting the structure right: the boxes, the reporting lines, the logic. But what I’ve come to see is that the real opportunity lies in how the team comes together after the restructure.
My recommendation? Be just as intentional about how the team will work together.
Because, the teams that perform at their best, the ones who move with rhythm and clarity, don’t land there by luck. They get there through intentional design which is not imposed but shaped collaboratively by the team.
That reflection brought me back to the concept of "team flow". Most of us are familiar with the term 'flow' at an individual level. But applying it to your team, intentionally, is a powerful shift in thinking.
Team flow is a state where alignment and shared intention make working together feel effortless. Performance is high. And the team moves together, even in times of uncertainty.
Think of a sailing crew — each person with a distinct role, responding to wind, waves, and one another. When they’re in sync, they make speed look effortless.
Team flow happens when certain conditions are in place:
- Shared goals
- Open and honest communication
- Equal contribution
- Deep trust
- Psychological safety
These elements don’t form on their own. They’re cultivated. Ideally from the start.
That’s why, in times of change, I encourage leaders to look beyond the org chart and ask: how are we setting this team up to work well together?
Because getting the people and the plan in place is only part of the equation. The how is what brings it to life.
Curious to understand what the science of team flow looks like?
The below Forbes article explains the science of team flow. It offers compelling insights into why this state matters, and what makes it possible.
Want to support your team to find its rhythm?
In my workshops, I work with teams to shape the conditions for collective clarity, trust, and momentum. Whether your team is newly formed or stepping into a new chapter, we focus on practical, human-centered strategies to unlock performance — together.
If your team could use more flow, and a little less friction, I’d be glad to explore what that might look like for you.
It’s taken time — and plenty of experience — to realise just how powerful that how really is.
And when it’s designed with intention and ownership, it’s what turns a new structure into a high-performing team.
Thanks for reading Leadership Insights Unlocked. I'll be back soon with more practical ideas and reflections on what really helps teams (and individuals!) to thrive.