A working definition of collaboration, shared by several different disciplines, is: joining together to make possible that which cannot be accomplished alone.
Joining together is that partnership in which all members of a team work together toward a common goal. By joining forces they become much more effective. As the saying goes: “Many hands make light work.”
While growing up in Cuba, I remember one time I was with my parents and two other women friends traveling in a very isolated rough dirt road to reach a community where my parents were to conduct some meetings. It started raining, and while crossing a small stream, one of the wheels of the jeep fell into a deep hole.
Although we tried to lift and push the vehicle, we were not able to move it. The chauffeur decided to try to find help in one of the farms in the area. Meanwhile, the torrential rain soon had the small stream converted into a swift running river that was threatening to take the vehicle away.
After a couple of hours, several men came by with their horses. Now, when everybody joined forces, they were able to get the vehicle free, turned around, and out of danger.
The practical lesson lived that day has stayed with me. You can help your organization get unstuck and move forward by joining the strengths of individuals with the gifts and strengths of others. Thus, you will help create momentum that moves everyone in the needed direction.
Envision joining as a series of gears, where the cogs align and leverage the energies of each gear. That is how you lead interactions within your group. Where there is misalignment, there is frustration and lack of forward progress. Your goal as a leader is to identify strengths and keep the joined gears smoothly running by making sure that clear communication builds strong relationships.
Remember. . .
When you join with others, forming a connection, collaborating and acting together, you can do anything!
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Photo by: John Spooner