Together everyone can achieve more

A lot is written about team work and we all know that when people work together in a meaningful way, we can achieve beyond our wildest dreams. For a team to truly work, ‘we’ has to be more important than ‘me’. Then we can make 1 plus 1 equal 11.

Pixar, the company that made the Toy Story blockbusters is one of the most successful movie studios of all time. Much of its success is due to its extraordinary level of teamwork. They always prioritise the best end result, no matter whose toes or egos get stepped on.

Toy Story 2, was more than three years into production when all of the work was thrown out and they started from scratch. It went on to become one of its most acclaimed movies. So, how did they create a culture that boasts an amazing level of teamwork in an industry that’s renowned for big egos? If they can do it, so can you and ‘we’.

Many give the credit to Steve Jobs, who funded and later owned the company. He looked at everything to ensure the team-energy could flow. He even ensured the physical layout of the building meant people had to meet. He placed a large atrium at the centre of the building that housed the cafeteria meeting rooms and bathrooms. So, all staff had to go there and meet each other. He understood the power of people meeting, connecting and communicating. Creativity and innovation are often spontaneous. We chat, and share ideas and new ideas are born. He understood the importance of having structures systems and processes at all levels that support teamwork.

One of the most iconic moments in recent history is the moon landing. Armstrong and Aldrin were just part of a team of 400,000 people that made this happen. Scientists, engineers, technicians and even seamstresses who stitched 21 layers of fabric into each spacesuit made this amazing feat possible. Everyone had an important part to play in what the team delivered. Everyone made it successful.

In a sport’s team the coach, the manager, physio and players and all members of the support team all have a part to play. It is the same in a business.

Other fundamentals of successful team work are respectful, honest and open communications. Trust is key. Everyone’s contribution and role is valued. A good team has common goals that everyone works towards and is committed to. There is a strong sense of belonging. People speak freely and respectfully. Questions and diversity are encouraged. There are no dumb questions. People are not punished for thinking differently or asking questions. There is clarity and accountability. Creativity and innovation are encouraged.

But, if you want to be a good team member you have to be first on your own team. This sounds simple but are you really on your own team? If you are it means applying all of those fundamentals to how you treat and relate with yourself. Go back and read and reflect. Being on your own team means speaking to yourself honestly, constructively and respectfully. It means spending time on what is important to you in life. It means not sabotaging your progress.

So this week take some time to reflect. Can you be a better team member to yourself and in all the other groups you are in…. At home, at work, in your family and in your community. No of us is as smart as all of us. Together we can make so much more possible.