When Do We Learn the True Value of Teamwork?

TEAMWORK … I’ve been exposed to that word, that concept, that strategy … for as long as I can remember. I’m sure you have as well.

It probably started for me as a Cub Scout and gained momentum as I grew into a Boy Scout. It was emphasized even more as I played high school football, basketball, and baseball. As I entered the military, it was immediately reframed as a critical life and death strategy.

After decades in the business world, I can safely say I’ve heard it mentioned most every week of my life. However, I often wonder if it hasn’t simply become a necessary “buzz word” that we’ve taken for granted and learned to ignore.

We see almost daily examples of the importance of TEAMWORK and the positive consequences which result. And yet, far too many organizations have relegated its importance at a time when it could easily mean the difference between success and failure for everyone involved! I wonder what those organizations are focusing on which is so much more important than developing TEAMWORK.

While I’m encouraged by the increasing number of requests for keynotes and seminars on the subject of TEAMWORK, I feel far too many organizations fail to realize the true need for TEAMWORK as anything more than a “buzz word.”

We even see revealing examples involving simple wildlife and yet fail to benefit from the obvious lessons provided for us. I was recently sitting with a close friend on my deck overlooking the lake as we witnessed a flock of geese flying by in perfect formation.

It immediately brought back memories of an age-old anecdote I’ve heard time and time again. I’m sure you’ve heard it as well. The question is: “Did you learn anything from the narrative? Did you apply the lesson to gain its obvious benefits? Did you close the “Knowing-Doing” Gap?

You might want to revisit this Generational Gem and even share it with those you currently team with. It’s a short video but offers a valuable lesson for us in today’s challenging, rapidly changing, chaotic environment.

Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of motivational speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services.