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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. Some scoff at our dreams, saying they are unrealistic and a waste of time. Some will see merit in our dreams but will feed you full of all the reasons why your dreams cannot be accomplished. And finally, some belief 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 than the sum of the parts." This means that a group of like-minded people working together towards a common goal are more apt to be successful than an individual's effort.

In nature, the beasts and the birds have long worked together synergistically. 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 re-join 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 can defeat more talented teams 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. Everyone 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

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 other's support group, and they came to rely on each other


Article Reference

This article first appeared in:

  • HUGHES, T. (2006) How to build your dream team. Brian Mackenzie's Successful Coaching, (ISSN 1745-7513/ 33/ June), p. 12

Page Reference

If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:

  • HUGHES, T. (2006) How to build your dream team [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/articles/scni33a10.htm [Accessed

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.