Are we in tribes?

What tribe(s) do you identify with?

It has been my observation that as a species, we humans are "pack" animals. We seek to join with others for companionship, security, and comfort. As Americans we like to "join" and identify with groups. It could be the PTA, Rotary, VFW, or a softball team. Even in our work spaces, we structure ourselves in "departments" or other such divisions in a typically hierarchal model.

In the post-acute/LTPAC sector, we have segregated ourselves into numerous groups. For-profit v. non-profit; independent v. corporate; small v. large, etc. For simplicity, I have started to describe these groups as "tribes", as that seems to indicate relationships and loyalty beyond mere membership.

The current political battles we see locally, statewide, and nationally are clearly, and at times, disturbing examples of the type of "tribes" that we have separated ourselves. If my "tribe" is in favor of something, then your "tribe" must be against it, regardless of the issue. I see "white" and you see must see "black"….how will we find the common group and solutions to the problems and challenges we are facing if we cannot see our similarities?

As a student of Stephen Covey's "Seven Habit of Highly Effective People", I have found comfort and wisdom in Habits Four, Five and Six, as they have serve as a pathway to better decisions and superior outcomes. While the words of the "Habits" are short but simple, they create a complex process that develops and can create interdependent relationships, which are a key element in breakdown the "tribes" barriers.

In Habit Four ("Think Win-Win") it is viewed as an attitude and not a final outcome. It is not "Win-Lose" or "Lose-Win", or any of the other configurations of the process. It is first "think"….then how can we find a solution to our dilemma that allows both parties to be successful?

Habits Five ("Seek first to understand then be understood" and Habit Six ("Synergize") go forward in assisting as tools to use "Think Win-Win" and finding the best alternative that serves all in the discussions and decisions. 

Unfortunately, the membership ethos in our "tribes" often causes the individual to consider the position of the "tribe" and forget the tools and lessons of the "Seven Habits".  In reality, our post-acute/LTPAC "tribes" have more in common that should bind us together, rather than separate us into "tribes". While membership in our "tribes" does have useful purposes, it will be our ability to seek out other "tribes", share common interests, secure common solutions, and work collaboratively that will serve all.

"A rising tide raises all ships" vs. "All ships on their own bottom". Which will we choose?