From a young age, I became involved in team sports. I was athletic, and in the small town where I grew up there were not many options for entertainment so it was the reasonable thing to do. Being a part of a team felt comfortable for me and I loved the social network. Inevitably over the years I heard many messages about teamwork … “there is no I in team,” “together everyone achieves more,” and “it’s not the team with the best players that win, it’s the players with the best team that wins.”

team⋅work
[teem-wurk]
noun
the combined action of a group of people, especially when effective and efficient

As a child, or even a teenager for that matter, it never occurred to me that being a part of a team was preparing me for my future. The definition of teamwork embodies almost every occupation I can think of. Having a family, well if that doesn’t require teamwork I don’t know what does. Life IS teamwork, going it alone is possible but is it effective and efficient? I am going to go out on a limb and say no, as well as venture it’s lonely and exhausting.

In graduate school, I spent hours on dreaded team projects, thinking, I could do this so much faster on my own! Luckily after two classes with groups that struggled to meld, I found myself working on a project with a group of five other amazing students. My mind shifted with this team that divided work by strengths, communicated well, and made our combined action purposeful and simple. It was that experience where I realized teamwork, when done well, is a beautiful thing.

It’s no different in business. Take ONEDECISION as a perfect example. As individuals, we could not accomplish what we can as a complementary team. Megan is the organizer in this group. She has brilliant ideas and is open to feedback and constructive criticism to make her plans even more genius. Talia is the cheerleader. When Megan or I lose focus, she shifts our mindset, reminds us to be grateful and that our outcomes are a direct result of our attitudes. She is creative and always connecting which is key in our business. I am strong in communication and relating to people. Leadership comes from all of us, at different times and in different arenas. We each work to our strengths and our diversity and balance create a well-rounded team.

Another reason for our success is we are compelled to be working toward a common goal and belief. We are inspired by heading the same direction into success in creating time and financial freedom for ourselves and our families. Because this is not only a personal ambition, but also one we aspire to for each person on our team, our outcomes become so much more meaningful.

Success in teamwork also requires groundwork in trust and encouragement. Supporting your teammates, listening to their ideas, and congratulating them on achievements are keys to both individual and team progress. With that, effective communication and basic human kindness are absolutely a requirement. Working as a team has challenges created by each respective member’s own personal experiences, insecurities, and beliefs. Without respect and courtesy as part of team etiquette, there is increased risk for instability of the team. Follow the golden rule, treat others how you want to be treated, and the team’s motivation and commitment to each other will lead to massive results.

There is one last key to effective teamwork, and it is up to you as an individual to ensure you are responsible for your role and behavior in the team. To be the most influential teammate you can be, you will need to be constantly striving to be your best you. There is no room for your ego in a team. When I learned “there is no I in team,” I was learning that if I let my ego and pride into the mix, the team will suffer. Humility is also crucial in teamwork. Admitting mistakes, showing your vulnerability, listening, empathizing and practicing gratitude will set the stage for acceptance in your organization. If each person in the team focuses on being their best personally, the strength of the team will grow exponentially.

Being a part of a high-performing teaming brings camaraderie, success, and fun. At ONEDECISION our focus is the TEAM. Our combined action has helped us prosper in all avenues of life and it’s our mission to help others do the same. We want YOU to be the next addition to our team! Jump in, you won’t regret it.