Teamwork – The Essential Ingredients

What is YOUR definition of a team and teamwork? Everyone has their own vision of what makes up a team. Is it a dynamic duo, like Batman and Robin? Is it a championship team like the Boston Celtics? Does it require more than one person… or was Tiger Woods and his caddy the best team ever?  Regardless of who makes up the team, they all have one thing in common… they work their tails off and trust the process.

Officially, a team is “a group of people who compete in a sport, game etc. against one another; a group of people who work together; A team can be known as a pod, a crew, a gang, a unit.” The one constant is working together towards a common goal.

Great teamwork and a solid team unit can keep the train rolling. Conversely, the lack of teamwork could stop you dead in your tracks. What are the special qualities for the magic recipe of a great team?

Along with a great recipe for teamwork, you must also have a focused and driven team-oriented leader. Having a great leader is crucial to your team’s results. Remember that amazing boss or mentor in your life? We’ve all had them. Now think about what special ingredients they used, and work to instill those in your team too.

Personally, I have been very fortunate to have been a part of so many amazing teams, both as a leader and a teammate. Whether it was my club volleyball team growing up, the college team I played on at the University of Kentucky, coaching at Kentucky and LSU or working with our amazing team at TTS, I’ve learned and achieved so much. The one constant has always been amazing people who work hard and trust the process.

At the end of the day, look at teams that win. They sign the next big deal, win the tournament championship or simply win the day. Everyone on the team must believe with your whole heart in what you are fighting for and who you are fighting with.

Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much!