Teamwork is defined in Coach Wooden's Pyramid of Success as "genuine consideration for others. A willingness to sacrifice personal interests of fame for the welfare of all. ”
Coach Wooden described team spirit this way:“The third block in the center of this structure is listed as team spirit, but it is nothing but consideration for others. We must consider others if we are to develop our own abilities, and we must work together for the well-being of all. In group work, it's amazing what can be accomplished if no one is wondering who will get the credit. »
Related: The roadmap to great teamwork
Each season, the coach shared with his players a document titled 'Team Spirit', which he said captured the essence of the trait:
We don't want “male” players, no “stars”…. No chain is stronger than its weakest link; no team is stronger than its weakest player. A player who tries to get into the stands can ruin the best team ever organized. We must be 'one for all and all for one' with every boy giving his best every second of the game. Team is first, individual credit is second. There is no room for selfishness, selfishness, or envy of our team.
Building team spirit is a leader's responsibility. It's the ability to get everyone in a group willing, not just willing, to put "us" before "me."
Teamwork isn't always an automatic trait. Here are some suggestions, based on Coach Wooden's philosophy, for developing it.
1. “Be a humble leader. »
The band needs to know that they are working with you, not for you. If something good happens as a result of a suggestion you received, thank the person who made the suggestion. If something bad happens as a result of a suggestion you received, blame it. As the coach liked to say, “the star of the team is the team.”
2. "Have rules or suggestions for how team members communicate with each other."
One of Coach Wooden's three rules of training was, "Never criticize a teammate." In the workplace, try to follow Napoleon Hill's advice:“If you have something to say to someone or about someone, ask yourself if it can help or hurt them. If it helps them say so; if it hurts them, no. » Create a culture where negative criticism and gossip are not accepted.
3. “Praise publicly and criticize privately.”
When praising, praise those who are rarely recognized. Coach Wooden did this when he spoke to the media about his team. In the workplace, for example, praise your “core team” (clerical staff) or your “first contact team” (receptionists). Coach used the analogy of a race car and pointed out that a bolt that holds a wheel to the car is just as important as the powerful engine that powers it. Everyone should know why their work is important and feel that their efforts are appreciated.
4. “Let team members know that their personal goals are only likely to be achieved if the team achieves their goals.”
You cannot get a raise if the company closes its doors.
5. “Share with your team the joy and importance of giving. ”
Coach Wooden described it this way:“Winning teams are characterized by selfless team play. I think teaching our players to look for the pass first and then the shot second helps develop team spirit. I also try to build this concept off the pitch. Coach Wooden often encouraged his players by reminding them that "you can't have a perfect day without doing something for someone without thinking about repayment."
Coach also liked to quote a passage he once read:"There is a mystical law of nature that the three things mankind needs most - freedom, happiness, and peace of mind - cannot be achieved without giving them to someone." another. Team spirit results when the leader inspires these same traits within their team and in doing so, unites all members to work towards their common goal.
“I try to emphasize to my players that you must give to receive,” Coach wrote. "It's something that holds true in basketball and in life. »
Related: How John Wooden Led His Teams to a Victorious Life
