What Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’ Teaches Us About Teamwork

One of the latest masterpieces coming from Netflix, Stranger Things, has captured our hearts and media attention worldwide with its surreal supernatural story of a missing boy in a 1980s era small-town USA, and a subsequent occurrence of odd and enigmatic events tied around his search.

But this isn’t any average mystery series. Winona Ryder aside, one of the best things about Stranger Things is that it features five incredible actors in their early teens, who carry the show and highlight some of the best things about teamwork, and why we loved watching those coming-of-age-films (just think about The Goonies or Stand By Me) for that very same reason.  

There is lots of nostalgia, epic music, the eerie atmosphere, and just enough magic, suspense and mystery to keep us hooked throughout. However, in its pure essence, the series is about the people and their relationships -- the little things that matter in life -- courage, family and friendship. Things we all find very relatable. We feel their pain, fear, despair and anger, but also their excitement, humour, and the ultimate bond and camaraderie that tie them together.

Placing somewhat misfit kids at the axis of power, it kind of tells us we can all be Heroes at some point -- and not just for a day.

The plot centers around a mysterious 12-year-old girl El (Eleven), who carries a dark past and creepy superpowers. However, despite her supernatural talents, she is simply a scared young girl trying to find a place to belong -- a supporting network of peers who would encourage her to utilise her immense skills for the best.

And, without revealing too much of the plot, even before Eleven finally learns to use her powers towards the good with the help of her new friends, we already know it will be the team spirit of her whole squad that will eventually conquer it all.

Having my own troop and a sense of community in my team has always been a priority for me at work. Hope we all get to find that supporting network of colleagues, friends and mentors who bring out the best of us at our jobs, and essentially encourage us to be better leaders as well.  

All images are copyright of Netflix.

Listen to the Stranger Things soundtrack on Spotify and watch the incredible series on Netflix.