Today we focus on building and maintaining partnerships and teams. “Teamwork makes the dream work!” is a saying you’re probably familiar with. Leadership exists through powerful relationships; no one can be a leader alone. Often the greatest leaders have a partner or teammates who can see their true selves and can challenge the leader’s thinking for the betterment of the cause or group efforts. A key characteristic in fostering partnerships and building teams lies within shared purpose and committing to shared goals.
It is also important to note that one should strive to make connections and build relationships in an authentic manner. Connections and relationships should be forged with good intentions, not through manipulation or deceit. One of the best ways to nurture partnerships and teams is to listen and be present. Being a great leader requires creating a shared vision and developing rapport with your partners and team, in order to ensure the group’s success.
Take a moment to reflect on the list below, which was adapted from Patrick Lencioni's (2002) The Five Dysfunctions of a Team. This list identifies key commitments that help create and foster an effective team.
Five Commitments for an Effective Team:
Opening up and building trust within the team
Engaging in respectful discourse and conflict
Committing to the team’s purpose
Holding oneself and others accountable for their performance
Focusing on collective results
“All change, even very large and powerful change, begins when a few people start talking with one another.” -- Margaret Wheatley
Day 6 Challenge Questions:
What partnerships/teams are you a part of and how does each of these groups impact your life?
In what ways are you challenged AND supported by your partnerships/teams?
BONUS Question:
What TV show, movie or documentary have you seen that further supports these statements, and how?
