It’s all about the Team

Life is a team sport.

It doesn’t matter how independent or autonomous you think you are, you are still part of a team.

Your team may be your family, your church, your corporation, or your network of neighbors and customer service representatives, but the fact is that you are part of a team somewhere in your life.

The sooner you learn how to be a great team player, the easier your life will be, and the greater the chances of winning.

I’ve watched many team sports in my lifetime, and I’ve been a part of many successful teams, and I’ve come up with these tips on how to be the best team player you can be:

1. Sometimes you have to pass the ball. You’ve seen it happen. Guy has the ball. He’s cruising down the field. He’s covered all around. Right in front of the goal is his open teammate – who never gets the ball and never makes the goal. It’s beyond frustrating but extremely common. A great team player doesn’t care who scores the goal as long as a goal is made. So pass the ball when you get a chance!

2. Sometimes you have to take the shot. Alternatively, there are times you’ve got to push down every bit of fear and uncertainty that threatens to explode in you, and you’ve got to get up there and take that shot. It may be scary when all eyes are on you. It may seem risky when you may miss. But when it’s time, get up there and take that shot. You’ve worked hard for it.

3. Always remember the play book. You can’t play well on a team without knowing the rules of the game. Professional athletes spend hours pouring over the game book, studying it, asking the right questions so that on  game day, there are no surprises.  Don’t try and improvise. Don’t be impulsive. Stick to the play book.

4. Always show up for practice. You cannot be a great team player without showing up for practice every single day. It’s during practice that you get to know your teammates and build trust. Show your respect for your team by being on time and working as hard as you can. It will pay off on game day.

5. Never ever blame your teammates. This is a rule to keep. It doesn’t matter if you lose, or if your teammate screws up, don’t ever blame your teammate, especially in front of the competition. You watch your teammates’ back, and they will watch yours when you need it.

6. Always listen to the coach. Every great athlete has learned the hard way that the coach is usually right. So listen to him. If you’re in the workplace, that “coach” is your boss. Stop questioning him. Stop doubting his words. You do your job and you let him do his. If you get to a place where you can no longer listen to your coach, maybe it’s time to find a new coach. Just saying.

All right, team. Are you ready for a win?

It’s not as hard as you think.

Do you consider yourself a good team player? Why or why not? Leave a comment.

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