What the Tuck(man)? · Kell's Classroom

What the Tuck(man)?

We’ve all been there. We start a project- group or otherwise- with hope and excitement, looking forward to the satisfaction of a job well done.

At least, for a few moments.

You would think that once we’ve set norms, laid out detailed plans, met together and assigned tasks, everyone would just…do the thing, right? Not exactly.

Whether it’s giving directions to a group of first graders, planning a family vacation, or painting your bathroom pink (which I did recently, highly recommend), humans are notorious for thinking linearly, but achieving in a loopty-loo. See the very scientific example below.

Fortunately, there’s a phrase for that. In the mid-60s, psychologist Bruce Tuckman introduced the four stages of group development—a model still widely cited today (Tuckman, 1965). Later, he and

Mary Ann C. Jensen added a fifth stage, “adjourning,” to complete the framework (Tuckman & Jensen, 1977).

They are:

Forming
Storming
Norming
Performing

Bonus

Adjourning

The idea is simple. First, teams come together with a common goal. They set norms, delegate tasks, and determine next steps. This is “forming”. Then, miscommunication happens, team members begin to push back and ask more direct questions, and frustration can happen- “storming”. Team members then work through those sticky spots, get more comfortable seeking clarification, and work together more cohesively- “norming”. Finally, like any Hallmark movie, the team starts making progress and (hopefully) crushes their goal- "performing”. The team then disbands- "adjourning”.

I’ve used this model for many years, and I’ve noticed a few things. First- “storming” and “norming” are interchangeable. They go back and forth fluidly, and “storming” can occasionally sneak into “performing” because she’s sneaky and very dramatic.

Second- this model can be used in every part of your life- your work, play, even your daily activities. Let’s take my ADHD adventure of deciding to paint my bathroom pink- here is an unfiltered peek into my brain (you’re welcome and/or I’m sorry).

Forming

The hall bathroom is boring and gray. I’ve been watching way too many dopamine decor videos on Instagram and I will paint the bathroom pink. I’ve had this dream since lunch, and no one can stop me. It can’t be that difficult.

Off I go to my local hardware store to buy every single item I need to do this simple task in less than six hours.

Storming/Norming (they are interchangeable, you see)

Damn- paint is expensive. I forgot that you should probably prime. Do I really need to prime? Kyle said yes. Ughhhh, that’s going to take forever. Oh well, I’ll do it.

Did I really need to paint the ceiling as well? Yes, it’s going to look incredible when it’s done. Whoops- got some primer on the tile. Oh lord, there’s primer everywhere. Good thing I cleaned the bathroom before I did this.

I’m so glad Josephine is helping me. She’s such a good kid. Welp- she got bored and ditched me. I’m le’ tired. How long does primer take to dry? 24 hours!? God help me.

Performing (and perhaps storming)

Phew! After some rest and food and allowing the primer to fully dry (which was torture, by the way) it’s time for PINK PAINT.

Oh my GOODNESS this is so CUTE! I’m so glad I primed- this is a masterpiece. Look how pink it is! Kyle is going to roll his eyes so hard. I don’t care. This bathroom is the happiest bathroom there ever was. Whoops- there are paint splatters everywhere. Why did I paint the ceiling again? My body hurts. I can’t wait to add more decor. This is so happy. I’m so glad I did this.

Adjourning

I wouldn’t say she’s completely finished, but take a look at the pics below!

Using Tuckman’s model in my work and everyday life has helped me reframe those tough, trying, or tricky moments. Too often, we try to bypass, rush through, or ignore storming times in our lives. When we do that, though, we miss powerful opportunities to reflect and grow. I’ve found by simply naming the setback or conflict, I am empowered to face them with more clarity and confidence. Besides, how boring would our time on earth be if the boat never rocked a little bit?

So- how will you use Tuckman’s model this week? In your classroom? In your work? At home?

Go get ‘em,

Kell

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