The Samurais of business

Xtreme Teams: How Ordinary People Achieve Extraordinary Results

In today’s business world, especially within agencies, teamwork is everything. Yet, few teams truly excel. So, how do ordinary groups achieve extraordinary results? By becoming what experts call "extreme teams" or "hot groups." These are teams fueled by passion, purpose, and a shared drive to succeed—and they can transform the way you work.

Passion Drives Performance

Extreme teams aren’t just about getting the job done—they’re about loving the process. According to Harold J. Leavitt, a professor at Stanford Graduate School of Business and coauthor of Hot Groups: Seeding Them, Feeding Them, and Using Them to Ignite Your Organization, these teams thrive because their members approach work with enthusiasm and obsession. For them, work isn’t just work; it’s fun, exciting, and addictive. They think about it constantly, eager to discuss it, solve problems, and innovate alongside like-minded teammates.

Jean Lipman-Blumen, professor at the Claremont Graduate School and Leavitt’s coauthor, adds that members of extreme teams often tackle challenges they view as monumental. While outsiders might not see the task as groundbreaking, team members are deeply convinced they’re working on something transformative. Their passion and commitment create an unstoppable momentum, sparking breakthroughs and driving success.

Decision-Making Through Collaboration

Extreme teams operate with a unique, flexible approach to leadership. Decisions are made by consensus, even if it means spending extra time debating the best course of action. For example, during a challenging competition, a team might pause for an hour to decide how to navigate a canyon. Leadership flows naturally, shifting to whichever member is strongest or most capable at that moment.

Leavitt describes this as “pluralistic thinking,” where the collective brainpower of the group becomes more creative and effective than any single individual. This collaborative mindset produces innovative ideas and ensures the team remains adaptable.

Finding Purpose in Work

For members of extreme teams, work is more than just a paycheck—it’s about making a meaningful impact. Leavitt emphasizes that these teams are driven by a sense of purpose. They refuse to waste time on trivial tasks and instead focus on projects that have the potential to make a difference in the world.

While many HR strategies aim to create a “satisfied” or “happy” workforce, Leavitt argues that happiness alone isn’t enough. People are also searching for opportunities to contribute to something worthwhile—this deeper motivation is what sets extreme teams apart.

Breaking Down Hierarchies

Titles and status hold little weight within extreme teams. Seniority and rank don’t matter; what counts is the ability to contribute. According to Leavitt, these groups are highly democratic and informal, breaking down bureaucratic barriers that often stifle innovation. However, this approach can create friction with the rest of the organization, as traditional structures may view the group’s autonomy as a challenge. Leaders must address these tensions to maintain harmony.

Bonds Forged Through Contribution

Unlike traditional teams that emphasize relationship-building through retreats or team-bonding activities, extreme teams grow around their tasks. Lipman-Blumen explains that respect and camaraderie emerge naturally as members contribute meaningfully to the shared goal. Witnessing someone’s expertise or dedication inspires others, creating lasting relationships rooted in mutual admiration.

A Safe Space for Creativity

Extreme teams foster a culture where individuality and creativity thrive. Members feel protected and supported by their group, allowing them to take risks and experiment without fear of failure. In the past, individuals were often left to succeed—or fail—on their own. In contrast, the collective strength of extreme teams provides a safety net that encourages bold ideas and innovation.

Final Thoughts

Extreme teams aren’t just about completing tasks; they’re about redefining what’s possible through passion, collaboration, and purpose. They prove that when ordinary people come together with shared dedication, they can achieve extraordinary results.

For more insights, contact Harold J. Leavitt ([email protected]) or Jean Lipman-Blumen ([email protected]).

This article is adapted from a paper by Cheryl Dahle.