Letting Go to Have It All

It's a surprising fact that sometimes you have to stop trying so hard, so what you want can come to you.

That's how it works with relationships, especially those on teams.

If you have a team of five people, you have five different views of how things should be done. If we're the ones leading the teams, we need these diverse personalities to trust and support our decisions.

Counterintuitively, we need to show our vulnerable side. We must be able to admit our weaknesses and ask for their help. This is difficult because of the enormous pressure we feel to appear competent and self-sufficient.

It's in this way the team opens up, communicates, and provides support to each other. It's a "We're in this together," dynamic.

Also, these five views, on any team, are going to be as unique as thumbprints. It's important to see this as a benefit. Making use of these resources you're supplied, will make whatever outcome you're planning even better.

All you have to do is listen. Oh, and ask. Find out what their take is on the project. They may (and probably do) see something you missed.

Even with the best-laid plans, you will still find challenges. Conflicts, misunderstandings, and differing opinions are inevitable. Conflict is a natural part of working together. We all have different styles, priorities and quirks.

Navigate these waters with active listening, empathy, and compromise.

Remember, teamwork is about shared goals and collective successes. Celebrate achievements that way, too. Remember. true success often involves the collaboration of many people. As you move through your project, celebrate both the big and small wins. This will boost morale and bring the team closer together.

"Individual commitment to a group effort—that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work." - Vince Lombardi