Who’s side are you on? Are we picking sides? Your side? My side? Their side? What if we were to choose “our side” in order to operate as a team, together? We can accomplish so much more when we communicate with each other, support each other, and solve issues together, with a foundation of trust that frees us to achieve better results.
The blessings for each other, and for those whom we serve are exponentially increased, when we are raised to the “Power of Us”
"The fellowship of true friends who can hear you out,
share your joys, help carry your burdens,
and correctly counsel you is priceless."
— Ezra Taft Benson
The ability to effectively communicate remains a strangely elusive commitment and skill set despite the outsized impact on the ability to deliver authentic excellence.
Language affects every aspect of life, and the lack of shared language is a significant factor for inefficiency in schools and requires suffering through avoidable conflict.
The words we regularly use are powerfully indicative of our organization's culture.
Us and Them. Yours and Ours. Are we united in purpose as allies or mired in battle?
"If you are really thankful, what do you do?
You share."
— W. Clement Stone
When trust is present, our tone and phrasing have recognizable characteristics.
Assumptions about meaning and intent are positive, looking for the best in others. Trust enables us to feel safe, to take risks, to express concerns, and to solve issues.
Conversations reflect mutual respect, deeper thinking, and higher purpose in mind. The work gets done with less friction and greater productivity because colleagues are more likely to share resources and data with each other in highly constructive ways.
"Do not merely look out for your own personal interests,
but also for the interests of others."
— Philippians 2:4
Education at its best is a model of teamwork with responsibility shared responsibly. We set the pace as faithful companions who listen to each other, celebrate victories, help carry each other's burdens, and provide wise counsel. That truly is priceless.
We need each other. Badly. Because teamwork is a prerequisite to reaching excellence, and it is exclusively experienced by those who combine talent, work, and humility.
When we're raised to the "power of us", life-changing exponential blessings are seen. As you share your incredible talents as a team, you will find that your fellowship will be multiplied. And so will your results, in pursuit of excellence in education.
