Paradox Pair #20: Teams & Individuals

To build a great enterprise we must invest and grow at the individual level, honing the skills and stoking the aspirations of each of us. These investments pay dividends by increasing motivation. Motivated individuals do better work, share richer ideas, are expert brand ambassadors, have lower rates of turnover, and are sought out to work with by others. Terms like "teams" are an organizational convenience, an easy way to conceptualize blocks of individuals in an org chart, not entities to make decisions. Teams don't think and organizations don't decide — too often we attribute choices to groups when it is the individuals who make these determinations. When we align on a common goal, a strategic initiative, with a clarity of purpose — only then should our thinking rise to the organizational level. Our on-going investment in individuals allows us to benefit from being part of a team. When we state our shared purpose we give rise to a sense of belonging. We all seek to be part of something bigger than us as an individual, it is one of the human superpowers when harnessed appropriately. Healthy teams generate a currency of connection: learning and teaching each other, supporting and celebrating, fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion. When we are operating as our best selves ... our organization will reap the benefits.

We cannot separate the importance of a sense of belonging from our physical and mental health. The social ties that accompany a sense of belonging are a protective factor helping manage stress and other behavioral issues. -Mayo Clinic Health System

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Further Reading: The Mayo Clinic published a short, practical guide to the benefits of belonging.

Is a sense of belonging important?

When you feel supported and not alone, you can better cope with difficulty in your life. Boost your sense of belonging with these 5 tips.

Mayo Clinic Health SystemAngela Theisen, L.C.S.W.

See the whole series by viewing the Paradox Pairs Index