How To

How to build your dream team

Tom Hughes explains why a group of like-minded people working together towards a common goal are more apt to be successful than the individual's effort

We all have dreams that we long to accomplish in life. There are those who scoff at our dreams, saying they are unrealistic and a waste of time. There are those who will see merit in our dreams, but will feed you full of all the reasons why your dreams cannot be accomplished. And finally, there are those who believe in the beauty of your dreams, who are willing to support you through the rough times that lie ahead. These are the people that you need to surround yourself with, Your Dream Team.

Synergy

Synergy: is defined as "harmonious teamwork toward a common goal to the degree that the outcome is greater that the sum of the parts." Simply put, this means that a group of like-minded people working together towards a common goal are more apt to be successful than the individual's effort.

In nature, the beasts and the birds have long worked together in a synergistic manner. The flight of the goose is a prime example. They fly in "V" formation so that their efforts aid each of the other members of the flock. When the leader tires, he/she moves to the back of the flock and drafts off the birds at the front. If a bird falls out of formation, they feel the drag of trying to go it alone, and quickly rejoin the flock. The lioness in search of prey does not go it alone. The adult females of the Lion's Pride hunt in synergy so that all the members of the Pride may eat.

In business, athletics, and family relationships, we can learn from the animals in the wild. Where implemented, synergy helps businesses become more successful and profitable. Athletic teams with less talent are able to defeat more talented teams simply because they worked together for a common goal. And families that work and play together tend to stay together.

So how do you go about assembling Your Dream Team?

  1. You must identify a small group of like minded individuals
  2. Keeping the group size small allows you to focus on your goals
  3. Have regular meetings with Your Dream Team - mobile phones off, no interruptions
  4. Meetings are to be upbeat, positive, and should be beneficial to everyone
  5. Every must agree to be fully involved
  6. Share something positive that has happened since the last time you met
  7. Share opportunities and adversities, and ask for feedback and help

Just recently I was told about a group of athletes that met for dinner once a month. They discussed the positive as well as the negative things that were going on in their athletic careers. This is an example of a Dream Team in action. They had unknowingly become each others support group and they came to rely on each other

About the Author

Tom Hughes is a coach, educator, author, clinician, and motivational speaker in the USA. Recently, he authored Power Thoughts for Coaching Basketball, a multi-purpose book designed for basketball coaches. He also produces Motivational Moments, a weekly email newsletter.

Article Reference

  • Hughes T. (2006), "How to build your dream team", Brian Mackenzie's Successful Coaching (ISSN 1745-7513), Issue 33

Associated Pages

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