The Art of Teamwork

It can be challenging to see this during a tense team meeting, when opinions clash and tempers flare. It can be difficult to remember when a member of our or another team misses a deadline, or when there's a misunderstanding about who was responsible for what task. It can be hard to remember when teamwork feels more like a battle than a collaborative effort.

But we must remind ourselves that all of us are working on the same project. Some consciously, with understanding; some without knowing it. We are all part of the same team, however some are contributing in different ways. Some of us may be the planners, others the executors, some the creative thinkers, and others the critical evaluators. Even those who seem to hinder the process or challenge the status quo — they too play a critical role. Their opposition or differing viewpoints often lead to better, more robust solutions.

As a leader in a large organization, or as a team member in a complex project, we're certain to encounter a wide array of personalities and work styles. We face disagreements and conflicts. We endure setbacks and misunderstandings. Yet, all great leaders realize the importance of working together with everyone, regardless of the challenges presented to them. We must understand that even those who voice strong opinions that challenge the group are helping. In other words, every team member contributes in their way, knowingly or unknowingly shaping the outcome of the project.

We often say that everyone has a role to play. All the people we work with are fulfilling their roles, however different they may seem from our own. We must understand that every team member, no matter how challenging or different, is there for a reason. They provide us with opportunities to grow, to adapt, and to strengthen our resolve. They remind us of the diversity of thought and approach that is essential in any team or group.

The power to influence the course of a project rests with us. Acknowledging the distinct contributions of every team member, is key. Our role is to blend these differing perspectives into a cohesive whole, turning potential friction into collective strides towards success. By consciously engaging with our team, we not only create a spirit of collaboration but also craft a path toward shared achievements.