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Communal Fantasies of Purpose, Growth, and Belonging for Collaborative Work.

In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, collaborative work has become the norm in many organizations. However, simply bringing people together is not enough to ensure successful collaboration. A positive emotional climate is crucial for creating an environment where individuals can thrive and work together effectively. In this blog post, I explore how communal fantasies of purpose, growth, and belonging can contribute to better collaborative work.


Creating an atmosphere that encourages open communication, trust, and psychological safety allows individuals to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions, leading to increased collaboration and productivity.


Communal Fantasies: Purpose, Growth, and Belonging:


Communal fantasies are shared visions or aspirations that unite individuals within a group. In the context of collaborative work, three key communal fantasies play a significant role: purpose, growth, and belonging.


1. Purpose:


A blond guy with a backpack next to a bus

Having a clear and meaningful purpose is essential for fostering collaboration. When individuals understand the purpose of their work and how it contributes to a larger goal, they feel a sense of direction and motivation. This shared purpose creates a common ground for collaboration, enabling team members to align their efforts and work towards a shared vision.



2. Growth:


The desire for personal and professional growth is inherent in most individuals. When organizations prioritize growth and provide opportunities for learning and development, it fosters collaborative work. By investing in training, mentoring, and skill-building initiatives, organizations empower their employees to reach their full potential. This not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens the collaborative fabric of the team.


A group of people talking

3. Belonging:


Humans are social beings, and a sense of belonging is crucial for fostering collaborative work. When individuals feel accepted, valued, and included within their team, they are more likely to contribute their ideas and perspectives openly. Building a culture of inclusivity, where diversity is celebrated and everyone's voice is heard, creates a sense of belonging that enhances collaboration and overall team performance.


Practical Strategies for Fostering Collaborative Work:


Now that we understand the importance of communal fantasies for collaborative work, let's explore some practical strategies to cultivate this positive emotional climate within a team.


1. Clearly communicate the purpose and goals of the team, ensuring everyone understands their role in achieving them.

2. Provide continuous learning and development opportunities, such as training programs, workshops, and mentoring.

3. Foster a culture of psychological safety, where individuals feel comfortable taking risks, sharing ideas, and expressing their emotions.

4. Encourage open and honest communication, promoting active listening and constructive feedback.

5. Celebrate diversity and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.


Collaborative work is a vital aspect of successful organizations. By embracing communal fantasies of purpose, growth, and belonging, organizations can create an environment that nurtures positive emotions, trust, and collaboration. Investing in collaborative work enhances team performance and contributes to the overall well-being and satisfaction of individuals within the organization.


Suggested literature:


Cabraal, A., & Basterfield, S. (Eds.) (2018). Better work together: How the power of community can transform your business. Wellington, NZ: Enspiral Foundation Ltd


Costas, J., & Taheri, A. (2012). ‘The return of the Primal Father’ in postmodernity? A Lacanian analysis of authentic leadership. Organization Studies, 33, 1195–1216.


Fleming, P., & Spicer, A. (2014). Power in Management and Organization Science. The Academy of Management Annals, 8(1), 237-298


Glynos, J. (2011). On the ideological and political significance of fantasy in the organization of work.Psychoanalysis, Culture & Society, 16, 373–393


Resch, B., Hoyer, P., & Steyaert, C. (2021). Affective control in new collaborative work: Communal fantasies of purpose, growth and belonging. Organization Studies, 42(5), 787-809

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