An often overlooked leadership skill is the ability to play on a team. Cooperation, teamwork, and unity sound easy enough, but there are people that struggle mightily with these concepts. They can’t seem to get along for long with groups of people in a productive way. These people end up complaining about their teammates, getting frustrated, leaving the group, or some combination of all of these. Then later, in a new situation, they begin the cycle again!
Real leaders are good at getting along with people. Period. This means that they can function productively in a group environment where their ideas may not only not get implemented, but sometimes won’t even be heard. That’s okay for the mature leader, however, because the mature leader knows that there is power in a group working together to find the best answer that works for the largest number of them, and then becomes something they can all do in unison. The power of shared goals and combined effort is hard to describe.
I have had the privilege of working on some excellent teams. First and foremost in that experience has been my time in with the LIFE Leadership company. We have had so many great master-mind sessions, massive changes to be made and reacted to, “jam sessions,” and just overall good team play that I feel blessed to have played a part. What great synergy. Seeing leaders like Orrin Woodward and Tim Marks in motion in a group dynamic is truly a great experience!
Leaders learn to foster collaboration. They learn to succumb some of their wishes to the good of the team. They learn to search for common ground and win-win scenarios, and they are selfless and respectful as the team dynamic ebbs and flows. Sometimes they play a prominent role, other times their role is more passive but just as important! Learn to foster this set of skillsets as you grow as a leader. Become a teammate others can count on. Contribute, share, and be an enthusiastic and engaged partner, but don’t dominate or sulk. Find out the uniqueness you bring to the table and contribute it! See if you can harmoniously add to the overall output so that the team is better because of your participation. When things go a little awry; take the blame and accept responsibility. When things go really well; give credit away. This all sounds so easy! But let me assure you that it is rare. So strive to be a great teammate and let your leadership grow in a collaborative way.
I dare you.
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