We all participate in teamwork at some point in our lives. A family unit is a team, as is a committee, a sports group, or a group of friends. In an article in The Economist, Benjamin Voyer discusses the “3 Cs” of teamwork: Communication, collaboration and coordination. These three concepts are the foundation of the success of any team activity, along with trust, and accountability.
A family unit of any type has shared history and goals. Each family member has a unique viewpoint and personality, and yet all members of the family can work together for the benefit of the whole. The leaders (adults) can remind the children of responsibilities and family values. Team members can adapt and make sacrifices for each other (like giving up attending a party to support a sibling’s school play).
To be a successful family team, you might try the following:
Communicate: define what role you feel each family member plays, how their individual strengths support the whole, and how you bring out the best in each other. When something does not go according to plan, or when one family member needs help, communicate clearly about expectations and mutual support. Learn effective communication and conflict management skills, such as those taught by Marshall Rosenberg in his Nonviolent Communication courses. Express gratitude and appreciation regularly for each member of the family.
Collaborate: learn how to best support each other, and understand what is working and what is not. Adjust chores and assignments as needed. Encourage the learning of new skills that would benefit the individual and the family group. Teach children dependability and reliability by having them work together toward a common goal.
Coordinate: discuss how to better share responsibilities and tasks. Successful family teams are accountable to each other, support each other through growth and change, and help each other reach full potential. When the opportunity or need arises, you step in and do what is needed. Work together to affect the greater world by teaching charity and kindness.
A focus on teamwork and mutual support can play a major role in the success and cohesiveness of the family unit.