Now that we've explored both [[The Jetstream]] and [[Fantasyland]], we have a map of how energy and consciousness flow through groups. ![[The Map Simple.jpg|600]] The Jetstream represents that optimal state of flow where a group is fully aligned and moving towards its [[The Jetstream#The Primary Objective|primary objective]] with clarity, purpose, and speed. In the Jetstream, the group's [[The Jetstream#The Flight Plan|flight plan]] is clear and compelling at every level: - The group's mission and vision provide a powerful "why" that inspires and orients everyone's efforts. - The primary objective translates that high-level direction into a specific, time-bound goal that everyone is working towards. - Individual tasks are clearly defined and prioritized based on their impact in advancing the primary objective. - Each task has clear boundaries around the time, resources, and role, and a clear flow of authorization. Crucially, this flight plan doesn't just provide external direction–it connects to the passions and inspirations of individuals within the group. When individuals can can see a clear connection from their day-to-day tasks all the way up to their own deepest sense of purpose, they tap into a wellspring of intrinsic motivation and energy. In contrast, Fantasyland is the state a group falls into when there are breakdowns in the flight plan. Here, individuals become disconnected from the primary objective and fall under the unconscious influence of [[Introduction to Shadow Dynamics|Shadow Dynamics]]. In Fantasyland, the group's energy is dissipated by shadow goals that undermine progress and lead to entropy and dysfunction. ## Work Group and Shadow Group In any group, there are two parallel realities at play: the work group and the shadow group. The work group is the part of the group that is consciously focused on the task at hand, using rational thinking to solve problems and make decisions. This is the part of the group that is engaged in performing work that advances towards the primary objective. The shadow group, on the other hand, is the part of the group that is concerned only with the psychological safety and survival of the group. Although this part of the group has become disconnected from the primary objective, it plays a role in maintaining the group's near-term cohesion and well-being by attending to the feeling energy and emotional needs of the group. ![[Map with subgroups.jpg|600]] Ultimately, if left-unaddressed, the shadow group becomes increasingly stuck in Fantasyland, undermining the group's effectiveness and eroding the group's ability to achieve its goals and fulfill its purpose. In a healthy, productive group, thinking and feeling energy work together harmoniously. The group is able to stay focused on its goals while also attending to the emotional needs of the group. The work group and shadow group are integrated. So, now we have a map of the territory. The question is, what do we do with this information? We'll explore how to apply our framework in the next section. ## Next Up [[Orienting & Navigating]]