Teamwork: July 2021 Character Trait
Pride and teamwork repel each other like water and oil. Pride says, “I don’t need you. I know that I could do that better. My ideas and perspectives are better than everyone else’s!” Teamwork says, “I can’t do this on my own. I need other people’s input and experience to balance out my weaknesses and inexperience.”
The first step towards teamwork is understanding that we all have weaknesses, biases (good or bad), and inadequacies. We need other people’s input. We need other people’s experience. We need other people’s strengths.
Whenever people with differing opinions, perspectives, and jobs work together, there are bound to be misunderstandings and conflict. However, when conflict occurs, listen calmly, communicate your perspective, and view the person with respect. Conflict doesn’t end well when two egos are battling for dominance.
We need other people’s input, experience, and strengths to balance out our weaknesses, but it’s not always easy. Pride gets in the way and conflict occurs, and everyone is affected. However, as we learn to listen and respond calmly, we will become better co-workers and teammates.
