Most of us do not need convincing with the benefits of teamwork for both the individual and the community. Whether you are hearing it from leaders of industry or eminent psychologists, the verdict will be the same. That feeling of belonging and the sense of commitment you experience through being a part of a team can do wonders for your wellbeing.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
From a community perspective, the American educator and author, Steven Covey hits the nail on the head when he describes teamwork as synergy and states it creates new and untapped alternatives and it values and exploits mental, emotional and psychological differences between people.
There are times when we want to be alone and most of us have solo projects or activities we enjoy and life usually provides space for that. Individual pursuits aside, it is human nature to seek friendship and to be a part of something greater than ourselves.
In my own case, I had been part of a very established team, the Australian Army for 36 years. When I separated from that team the feeling of loss I experienced was great. My natural reaction was to look to fill that void. I am not implying that my experience of separation from the army is unique, as most of us will feel it when we have significant change in our lives. I am posing that the evidence points to healthier individuals and stronger communities through team membership and team work.
Here on our beautiful Mid North Coast of NSW there are almost limitless opportunities to be a part of a team. You could join one of the many teams in our community that selflessly help others and make life better for so many. The Loins Clubs, Rotary and Legacy are prime examples of these teams.
If you are looking to keep yourself fit and active then one of our sporting organisations might be for you. In my case, my wife and I joined the Nambucca River Dragons Dragon Boat Club. This team gets us out on the Nambucca River twice a week and provides the opportunity to compete in races around the state and internationally if we choose.
Most people are also able to use their expertise and life experience to benefit teams. A friend of mine has joined Marine Rescue NSW where the experienced gained in many years with the Royal Australian Airforce is now value adding to this community team.
Whatever your background or stage of life you are in, the science is out there that supports the theory we are most content when we push beyond what we can do alone.
For your own physical and mental well being, as well as for the community, if you have not done so already please consider joining a local team. Search the internet for details on the teams waiting for you to join.
About the author: Mick Birtles is a recently retired army officer now living in Nambucca Heads. During his 36-year career, Birtles served in Bougainville, East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for command and leadership. Here he shares his interest in the issues effecting veterans on the Mid North Coast.
More from Mick Birtles:
