The phrases “Teamwork makes the dream work” and “There’s no ‘I’ in team” certainly have their time and place. However, not every challenge requires a team-based approach. When a problem needs to be solved, it’s important to recognize that not everyone brings the same level of expertise or understanding of what works and what doesn’t.
If a ditch needs to be dug, why not use the most efficient tool available? For example, not everyone knows how to operate a backhoe—but if someone does, it makes sense to let that person take the lead. The job gets done quickly and effectively, and everyone benefits. Just because everyone can use a shovel doesn’t mean everyone should. Nor is it the responsibility of the person with the specialized skill to train everyone else before the work can begin. The team’s lack of familiarity with a tool shouldn’t prevent it from being used to achieve the best result.
On the other hand, if the task is to plant a small shrub, a shovel will do just fine. But again, not every member of the team needs to take a turn digging the hole. Some tasks are better handled by individuals with the right tools or experience, rather than by the entire team working in unison.
Daily Irritant 