Self- vs. Team Preservation

Many teams are working remotely today. On top of physical distance, they are also continuously losing and gaining colleagues thanks to rapid attrition and hiring. What remains? Disconnected teams of people who don't know each other very well.

This dynamic is causing a heightened focus on self-preservation over team preservation. I don't have to tell you how dangerous this can be for the health of the team and organization.

In this video, I share two strategies for addressing this dangerous dynamic. While the strategies in the video may seem geared toward leaders, here's a final call to action for each of us:

Regardless of position, might we take an honest look at our posture: Am I more concerned with self-preservation or team preservation? Let's stop complaining about the lack of trust and care on the team, while doing nothing to counter it. Instead, let's be the ones to proactively reach out to others, to offer help, to recognize our colleagues' talents and contributions, and to make our teammates shine.

Every member of the team holds responsibility for the team dynamic. What are you doing to foster team preservation over self-preservation?