The ability to work together and collaborate effectively has a big impact on how much teams accomplish. This has traditionally been assessed by the output of the team which is the combined contributions of the individual team members via their assigned tasks. Inherently, the evaluation of team performance has been based on what individual team members do.
In What Kind of Thinker Are You?, Mark Bonchek and Elisa Steele argue that it is “how teams think together that most determines their performance.” They propose that similar to how team members today “have assigned doing roles, there should also be thinking roles.”
Their three-step method entails first identifying the “focus on your thinking in a particular context or setting” such as ideas, process, action or relationships. As an example, if you and your friends are planning a trip, do you generate ideas of places to visit, plan the itinerary, take action to book the flight or call up friends in Paris to let them know you’re coming? The next step is to observe if your orientation in that setting leans toward the big picture or the details. Lastly, combine these two dimensions to see your thinking style.
This exercise is good to help us identify our gaps. Chances are, we don’t have all of the thinking styles above covered on our own. Make note of where you stop short. Is it a recurring theme in your work? This presents an opportunity for us to identify team members who compliment us.
I’ve worked with teams that were formed in this way where each person’s role is aligned with how they think. In one example, a product management team had an idea for a new service that would improve customer experience and generate additional revenue for the company. The initial two-person team outlined the new service as explorers and experts. They then added a project manager who was more planning and process-oriented and identified all the necessary milestones to make the new service a reality. Next, an extended team was put in place to drive and take action in functional areas such as operations, marketing, sales, training etc. Lastly the core product management team and project manager combined efforts to build relationships with supporters and strategic partners. Ultimately, the service was launched successfully with the combined effort of individuals whose contributions aligned with their thinking style.
When we’re all operating in our zone, we get more done, are more effective and perform better. It makes sense to focus on our strengths and get help in areas where we’re not as strong. When this is someone else’s strong point, it ends up being a win-win for the team. Richard Branson said it best:
Surround yourself with people who complement your weaknesses and share your passions — success will follow.
Where do you fall on the chart above? Can you think of teams you were a part of that had an imbalance? What was the impact on team performance and morale? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
Dasanj Aberdeen is an entrepreneurial spirit who embodies the combination of left-brain logic and right-brain creativity. She is a consultant and proponent of multidisciplinary education, approaches and pursuits. She writes about their benefits in modern times and integrating multiple interests into a sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle. She’s a graduate of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University with a concentration in Technology & Innovation Management, jointly delivered by the Fox School of Business and College of Engineering.
I still haven’t gotten my hands on the Book on Life so I don’t know how clearly it lays out all the things we need to know and
remember. I suspect it doesn’t explicitly state that life isn’t always easy. Maybe that is written somewhere in fine print, hanging off the bottom of a random page, if it is in the book at all.
During honest, open and authentic conversations, you learn about the different things people are going through in life. Each day we manage multiple aspects of our lives, and when we’re laser focused on the problem du jour, we easily neglect other areas. I had some good conversations with friends recently and came away with some important takeaways across various aspects of life that are worth remembering.
One friend was traveling for work and contemplating career next steps and taking some time to catch up on the non-career aspects of life. In a conference call with two friends, one had been thinking about his higher purpose in life because he doesn’t want to settle or live a life where he’s just going through the motions. The other friend questioned his authenticity as he assessed how his interests align to his higher education pursuits. In another conversation, a friend shared her decision to move to a different city after being honest with herself about always wanting to and realizing this may be the best time.
The takeaways from these conversations were relevant and timely. They’re great reminders that we’re in the driver seat of our lives and own our choices and how we live our lives:
Be a complex, multi-faceted person. Being well-rounded and knowledgeable about different topics adds to your perspective, helps you generate new ideas and enhances how your critical-thinking skills. You’re more interesting when you can contribute to any conversation and keep up no matter where it goes.
Think and wonder. Why else do we have a brain and the ability to think and process information? Questioning is healthy and you don’t need approval for the possibilities you envision. Not everyone will stretch their imagination like you, so when people don’t get it, maybe it is just you! And that’s OK! 🙂
Aspire for more in life. You don’t need to settle. It is OK to be ambitious, strive and desire to have an impact. It is OK to be passionate about something in life and seek a higher purpose. This requires a holistic approach to bring it all together for a fulfilling life.
Learn to balance. Although you may have big aspirations, you have to figure out how to balance everything. There’s only so much time in the day. You’ll have to balance accomplishing things, being present, being grateful, dreaming big, being practical etc.
Build your toolbox. What tools have you gathered along the way and continue to carry with you on your life journey? Think of all the advice, lessons you learned the hard way, “how to” information, skills, education, talent, and resources you have. There’s always a need to step up your toolbox game so keep adding to it!
Don’t be another ______. Whether that’s an employee number, a generic person filling a role, remaining unknown or unacknowledged, you don’t want to live a life where you feel replaceable. It is OK to be dynamic and unique. Set yourself apart by providing value and making a difference, not for recognition, but because you want to help others and have an impact.
Own your core. Focus on and play to your strengths. Don’t waste time battling with your weaknesses. There is someone who is amazing in that area so let them own it. Focus on what you’re great at and continue to improve in that area.
Be a better version of yourself. The only person you need to be better than is the person you were yesterday. So don’t worry about competing with others or seeking their approval.
Leverage the power of like-minded people. The energy, strength and inspiration from talking to and interacting with like-minded people is amazing. Use that to your advantage to tackle big goals. You don’t do everything yourself.
Make time and space for what’s important. Make time for your interests, family, friends or whatever else is important to you. When you keep what’s important to you in your life, you’ll keep your momentum going. This provides a safe space and rejuvenation to propel you forward.
Cross things off your bucket list. This first assumes you have a bucket list. But it isn’t enough to just have one. You need to actively cross things off over time. The good thing is you don’t always need a deadline but make sure you have a plan to get to it.
Be true to yourself. From time to time, ask yourself if you’re being true to yourself or if you’re being disingenuous. You need to check. It is easy to go through the motions and not intentionally align actions with your overall goals. Do a check up periodically.
Be open to the unexpected. It is great to have a plan. But sometimes, things go awry! Life always has jokes. Give yourself a break and be flexible! Switch things up, pivot as you need to and keep it moving!
What are some of your favorite life takeaways? Are any of the ones above on your list? What works for you? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
Dasanj Aberdeen is an entrepreneurial spirit who embodies the combination of left-brain logic and right-brain creativity. She is a consultant and proponent of multidisciplinary education, approaches and pursuits. She writes about their benefits in modern times and integrating multiple interests into a sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle. She’s a graduate of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University with a concentration in Technology & Innovation Management, jointly delivered by the Fox School of Business and College of Engineering.
President Barack Obama is down to his final days in office as we’re reminded by his farewell address. The 44th President of the United States was a noticeably different politician from the moment he came onto the scene and has been an inspiration throughout. His good heart and intentions were confirmed in his eight years in the White House. He led the country while being laser focused on upholding the expectations of his position, but he didn’t stop there. Above all, he led by example which provided insight into his integrity and true character. This is true leadership. He’s a true orator, upstanding, poised, just and hopeful. We saw this one more time in his farewell speech as he looked back on his years in office and urged us to remain hopeful for the future. He reminded us he can’t do “Four more years!” when the audience chanted, but he assured us that change is up to us and “Yes we can!”
Leadership is not a position or a title, it is action and example. – Cory Booker
I’ve enjoyed this speech four times so far – watched it twice on TV, once on YouTube while working out and read through the transcript. Below are some of my favorite takeaways from his farewell speech. These words ring true, not only in politics but in life.
Source: NDTV
On Learning
Michelle and I have been so touched by all the well wishes that we’ve received over the past few weeks. But tonight, it’s my turn to say thanks. Whether we have seen eye-to-eye or rarely agreed at all, my conversations with you, the American people, in living rooms and in schools, at farms, on factory floors, at diners and on distant military outposts — those conversations are what have kept me honest, and kept me inspired, and kept me going. And every day, I have learned from you. You made me a better President, and you made me a better man.
We get the opportunity to learn from everyone we encounter. Each person has a story or perspective that can enlighten us. Good leaders recognize they don’t have all the answers and they’re open to learning from those around them. Further, they’re willing and ready to give credit where credit is due.
On Starting Out
So I first came to Chicago when I was in my early 20s. And I was still trying to figure out who I was, still searching for a purpose in my life. And it was a neighborhood not far from here where I began working with church groups in the shadows of closed steel mills. It was on these streets where I witnessed the power of faith, and the quiet dignity of working people in the face of struggle and loss. This is where I learned that change only happens when ordinary people get involved and they get engaged, and they come together to demand it.
Surely young Barack Obama didn’t imagine he would one day be President Barack Obama as he took the first steps to figure out himself and his purpose in life. But the universe has a mysterious way of working with you when you get started. Along the way, you learn what works and what doesn’t work. You can only create change by taking action.
On Dreams
What a radical idea. A great gift that our Founders gave to us: The freedom to chase our individual dreams through our sweat and toil and imagination, and the imperative to strive together, as well, to achieve a common good, a greater good.
Being able to translate our ideas and thoughts into something real with action and effort is empowering. But more times than not, we need the help of others. As the saying goes, “it takes a village.” Whether through support, resources, or guidance, we can’t do it alone. Sometimes, what we want to do is more successful by collaborating with others who have that common vision and goal.
On Togetherness
Our youth, our drive, our diversity and openness, our boundless capacity for risk and reinvention means that the future should be ours. But that potential will only be realized if our democracy works.
That’s what I want to focus on tonight: The state of our democracy. Understand, democracy does not require uniformity. Our founders argued. They quarreled. Eventually they compromised. They expected us to do the same. But they knew that democracy does require a basic sense of solidarity — the idea that for all our outward differences, we’re all in this together; that we rise or fall as one.
Innovation provides us with a world of opportunities. With a willingness to try, take risks and pivot, the possibilities are endless. Hope has no limit. One of the best things about innovation is that diversity enhance it. Different ideas, view points and ways of doing things all increase the likelihood of innovation. Whether you’re in this with a partner in business or in your personal life, a shared mission is crucial. That common ground and togetherness helps you tackle and get past anything that comes your way.
Source: Bloomberg via Getty Images
On Race
So if we’re going to be serious about race going forward, we need to uphold laws against discrimination — in hiring, and in housing, and in education, and in the criminal justice system. That is what our Constitution and our highest ideals require.
But laws alone won’t be enough. Hearts must change. It won’t change overnight. Social attitudes oftentimes take generations to change. But if our democracy is to work in this increasingly diverse nation, then each one of us need to try to heed the advice of a great character in American fiction — Atticus Finch — who said “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”
Race relations is not an easy or comfortable topic. We all have a point of view based on our own culture, upbringing, environment, influences, etc. Often we remain in our own corner and believe we’re open-minded and understand those who are different from us without engaging with them or hearing their perspective. But how is this possible? You don’t get insight on their “why” or context without conversation. That’s why it is important to “walk in their shoes” so you can understand them and empathize. It takes immersion, engagement, and uncomfortable work to “get it.”
On Staying in Our Own Bubble
And that’s not easy to do. For too many of us, it’s become safer to retreat into our own bubbles, whether in our neighborhoods or on college campuses, or places of worship, or especially our social media feeds, surrounded by people who look like us and share the same political outlook and never challenge our assumptions. The rise of naked partisanship, and increasing economic and regional stratification, the splintering of our media into a channel for every taste — all this makes this great sorting seem natural, even inevitable. And increasingly, we become so secure in our bubbles that we start accepting only information, whether it’s true or not, that fits our opinions, instead of basing our opinions on the evidence that is out there.
This is the easy route. Our own bubble is comfortable and warm. And when that is all we know and live, it is increasingly difficult to see outside of our lens. We become more ingrained in our conviction and double down when alternatives are presented to us. This is scary when the truth and facts are disregarded. With the technology and resources at our disposal in these times, it is easy to fact-check and verify information. What happens when it is “too much work” to do our homework and confirm information? Are we OK doing nothing and convincing ourselves that information that reinforces our belief is correct without having proof?
On Innovation and Problem-Solving
Now, we can and should argue about the best approach to solve the problem. But to simply deny the problem not only betrays future generations, it betrays the essential spirit of this country — the essential spirit of innovation and practical problem-solving that guided our Founders. It is that spirit, born of the Enlightenment, that made us an economic powerhouse — the spirit that took flight at Kitty Hawk and Cape Canaveral; the spirit that cures disease and put a computer in every pocket.
Innovation is a result of finding a solution to a common problem or need. Inherently, this involves first acknowledging there is a problem. Only then can you evaluate the approaches toward a solution and ultimately, agree on the best solution.
On Fear
So let’s be vigilant, but not afraid.
Don’t let fear overpower you. Fear can be paralyzing, if you allow it. It can own your thoughts and actions. Don’t let fear have so much power over your life and livelihood.
On Getting Involved
But remember, none of this happens on its own. All of this depends on our participation; on each of us accepting the responsibility of citizenship, regardless of which way the pendulum of power happens to be swinging. Our Constitution is a remarkable, beautiful gift. But it’s really just a piece of parchment. It has no power on its own. We, the people, give it power. We, the people, give it meaning.With our participation, and with the choices that we make, and the alliances that we forge. Whether or not we stand up for our freedoms. Whether or not we respect and enforce the rule of law. That’s up to us.
So, you see, that’s what our democracy demands. It needs you. Not just when there’s an election, not just when your own narrow interest is at stake, but over the full span of a lifetime. If you’re tired of arguing with strangers on the Internet, try talking with one of them in real life. If something needs fixing, then lace up your shoes and do some organizing. If you’re disappointed by your elected officials, grab a clipboard, get some signatures, and run for office yourself. Show up. Dive in. Stay at it.
We can be bystanders or we can get involved. It is our choice. But we should realize the implications. Nothing changes without action. And the work it takes to create change isn’t a short-term commitment. It involves showing up and staying for the long haul.
On Work
Sometimes you’ll win. Sometimes you’ll lose. Presuming a reservoir of goodness in other people, that can be a risk, and there will be times when the process will disappoint you. But for those of us fortunate enough to have been a part of this work, and to see it up close, let me tell you, it can energize and inspire.
The outcome of your work isn’t guaranteed. There will be both good days and bad. Luck will sometimes be in your favor and other times disappointment will arise. But in the end, it will be worth it. You will have the peace of mind knowing you showed up and did something. That in and of itself is gratifying and if you’ve positively impacted people and things along the way, you’ll be fulfilled.
On Partnership
Michelle — Michelle LaVaughn Robinson, girl of the South Side — for the past 25 years, you have not only been my wife and mother of my children, you have been my best friend. You took on a role you didn’t ask for and you made it your own, with grace and with grit and with style and good humor. You made the White House a place that belongs to everybody. And the new generation sets its sights higher because it has you as a role model. So you have made me proud. And you have made the country proud.
You want your partner to uplift you and make you a better person. At the same time, you want them to be comfortable in their own shoes, take a stance and uplift themselves. It takes a higher purpose and integrity to step into a role that you didn’t seek out and as a result, have an impact on those around you. Being able to do this, rightly makes you a role model.
On Friendship
To Joe Biden — the scrappy kid from Scranton who became Delaware’s favorite son — you were the first decision I made as a nominee, and it was the best. Not just because you have been a great Vice President, but because in the bargain, I gained a brother. And we love you and Jill like family, and your friendship has been one of the great joys of our lives.
President Obama and Joe Biden have had a great working relationship. But above all, they have been great friends and the admiration between the two of them is clear. It is very moving to see the love and brotherhood they’ve shared. This is what life is all about. W can interact with anyone on the surface, but it is these deeper relationships that make life and our experiences meaningful. It is beautiful and touching.
As President Obama Surprises Joe Biden With Presidential Medal Of Freedom – Source: CNN
On Purpose
And that’s why I leave this stage tonight even more optimistic about this country than when we started. Because I know our work has not only helped so many Americans, it has inspired so many Americans — especially so many young people out there — to believe that you can make a difference — to hitch your wagon to something bigger than yourselves.
What is the overarching purpose that drives you? We all need this. We need to know our why. This guides our actions and gives our lives meaning. Without it, it is hard to explain why you do what you do. Why do you read instead of watching TV? Why do you volunteer instead of playing video games? The more intentional our actions, the more likely we are to make a difference in the world and in the lives of those around us.
On the Future
Let me tell you, this generation coming up — unselfish, altruistic, creative, patriotic — I’ve seen you in every corner of the country. You believe in a fair, and just, and inclusive America. You know that constant change has been America’s hallmark; that it’s not something to fear but something to embrace. You are willing to carry this hard work of democracy forward. You’ll soon outnumber all of us, and I believe as a result the future is in good hands.
How we are and act today provides insight into our tomorrow. What do you care about? What are you willing to focus on now in order to have a better tomorrow? What sacrifices are you making? What are you standing up for?
On Believing
I do have one final ask of you as your President — the same thing I asked when you took a chance on me eight years ago. I’m asking you to believe.Not in my ability to bring about change — but in yours.
I am asking you to hold fast to that faith written into our founding documents; that idea whispered by slaves and abolitionists; that spirit sung by immigrants and homesteaders and those who marched for justice; that creed reaffirmed by those who planted flags from foreign battlefields to the surface of the moon; a creed at the core of every American whose story is not yet written: Yes, we can.
Yes, we did. Yes, we can.
Believing is the first step. Belief in our ability. Belief that our work and effort will make a difference. Belief that there’s a need to do things differently and that we’re equipped to bring that change. The future isn’t certain. But our mindset is the first step and often our biggest hurdle. Once we get past our own head, the possibilities become endless.
Dasanj Aberdeen is an entrepreneurial spirit who embodies the combination of left-brain logic and right-brain creativity. She is a consultant and proponent of multidisciplinary education, approaches and pursuits. She writes about their benefits in modern times and integrating multiple interests into a sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle. She’s a graduate of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University with a concentration in Technology & Innovation Management, jointly delivered by the Fox School of Business and College of Engineering.
We love the outside reinforcement that comes with a new year and the opportunity it presents to start fresh. We are gifted a clean slate with 52 untouched weeks, 12 blank months and 365 (or 366) days to start over. We get another chance at realizing the goals that weren’t prioritized before. In the spirit of being hopeful and positive, we shake off what was and look forward to what will be when we do things better this time around.
Common goals include getting fit, eating healthy, losing weight, saving money, or spending more time with family and friends. Each year, these goals have a 12/31 target date, but they usually go unachieved by the time 12/31 rolls around. Why is that? Why is it that these “important” goals don’t motivate us enough to achieve them? Why do we have these goals in the first place? Maybe the why isn’t very clear and doesn’t give these goals a higher purpose and greater meaning.
I created a framework using goal pillars to address this. Each pillar is something you prioritize in order to have a fulfilled life and together they provide balance. Goal pillars facilitate the creation of the best version of yourself and support the overall lifestyle you want. You can use this framework to simplify the goal-oriented changes needed in your life so your vision of your future becomes a reality.
Goal pillars facilitate the creation of the best version of yourself and support the overall lifestyle you want.
Here is what this looks like:
Here are some pillars you can include in your framework with goals for each:
PHYSICAL
Maintaining soundness of the body, freedom from disease or abnormality and optimal well-being where the body functions as designed.
Run 15 miles weekly
Drink more water and fewer sugary drinks
Get a good night’s rest
MENTAL
Cultivating a healthy psychological, emotional and social well-being which affects how you think, feel and act as you cope with life.
Practice meditation to reduce stress
Develop a network of positive friends
Keep a daily journal to document your feelings
EMOTIONAL
Being happy, self-aware, self-confident and resilient to cope with life’s challenges and recover from setbacks.
Build more authentic relationships
Develop hobbies to reduce boredom and increase pride in your work product
Take a class to learn deep breathing techniques
SPIRITUAL
Religious faith, values, principles, beliefs, and morals.
Attend church regularly and pray daily
Practice forgiveness
Set aside quiet time each day with limited distractions
SOCIAL
How you get along with people, how people react to you and how you interact with society.
Visit friends and family more often
Talk to strangers and understand their story
Start a random act of kindness project
INTELLECTUAL
Ability to think critically, questions one’s surroundings, pay attention to current events, develop creative ways to adapt to unexpected challenges and grow from experiences.
Take a course on a new subject
Subscribe to a journal or magazine
Read at least 10 books
PROFESSIONAL
Improving a career or occupation in which you were trained by learning to earn or maintain professional credentials such a academic degrees, conferences and or other opportunities in order to advance.
Attend one industry conference
Enroll in training course
Secure speaking engagements at local organizations
FINANCIAL
How you manage your money and assets and plan for the future along with the related decisions and activities
Develop a personal budget
Build and maintain an emergency fund
Develop an investment strategy for retirement
PERSONAL
The sum of personal choices that contribute to one’s personal identity
Pursue interest in interior design by taking on projects to help friends and family
Deepen relationship with extended family members
Take more trips and create a travel blog to document the journey
FAMILY
Routine interactions and activities that a family have together including spending time and doing things together
Develop family traditions for key holidays
Set aside one night per week as family night with board games or movies
Create a stronger relationship with my partner
INTERESTS
Activities enjoyed outside of work that are an extension of one’s personality or desired lifestyle
Join a volleyball league
Buy and rent out an investment property
Take an online course on data and analytics
COMMUNITY
Provide resources such as time, items, skills, money, assistance etc. to those in need
Volunteer at a local senior home and do art projects with the elderly
Donate household items to Salvation Army or Goodwill
Tutor students in an after school program
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Identify a customer need and develop a solution that is profitable and scalable
Define, invest in, build and run a business
Build a team and create systems and processes to run the business remotely
Advise startups and mentor founders
The great thing about goal pillars it that the framework is flexible and fluid! As new pillars become a priority in your life, you can add them and remove those you’ve achieved or that are less important. Instead of moving through life aimlessly, this gives you a tool to design and live a rich, intentional life with purpose!
Here is one more example before it is your turn!
Which pillars would you include in your goal pillars? I’d love to hear how you use this approach in your own life. Feel free to share in the comments below! And pass along to anyone who could benefit from this approach!
Dasanj Aberdeen is an entrepreneurial spirit who embodies the combination of left-brain logic and right-brain creativity. She is a consultant and proponent of multidisciplinary education, approaches and pursuits. She writes about their benefits in modern times and integrating multiple interests into a sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle. She’s a graduate of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University with a concentration in Technology & Innovation Management, jointly delivered by the Fox School of Business and College of Engineering.
