By: Stacee Baker, MEd, BSN, RN, CCRP and military family member
Humans are conditioned to focus on their deficiencies. Compete with each other. “One up” everyone. Leaders are trained to have an eagle eye for weakness and to mitigate risk. At work, this idea might mean if someone “wins,” others “lose.”
But what about community? Fellowship? Helping one another? Think about how you can uncover the special qualities of someone. Then, consider how that information contributes not only to the realization of that person’s best life, but to a whole group. That group could be yours.
You can build more effective teams when you spend the time to build relationships via retreats. Relationship-building retreats and trainings create an environment of community. These trainings can encourage a focus on belonging and team strengths. A focus on team cohesion and strengths is precisely what brings out the best in others. And the best in others brings out the best in organizations.
As a leader, you want to keep your team motivated and committed. That might seem harder than ever right now in the “new normal” since the pandemic changed the way many people approach their work. Retreats can be dynamic and powerful tools that allow members to identify and develop their strengths and help build team cohesion. The smartest investment you can make is to invest in your team and their healthy work environment. Thanks to a foundation of positive psychology research, the tools to do just that are available.
Use one or more of these HPRC resources at your next retreat:
- Help your team identify their signature strengths and use the related discussion questions to further optimize their strengths.
- Download the “stress helps me” PDF so team members can examine past experiences where stress helped them optimize their performance, live their values, and grow from adversity. This activity can also help team members solidify their mindset and is a great exercise to discuss in pairs or small groups.
- Ask your team to start a gratitude practice, which can help optimize stress, build relationships, and improve their health.
- Suggest that team members use a gratitude calendar to help buffer against feeling overwhelmed by stress—and increase the likelihood they offer or ask for help.
These tips and more can help your team build cohesion.
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* The opinions and assertions expressed herein are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of USU or DoD. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the author and do not reflect the views, opinions, or policies of The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. Mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. The author has no financial interests or relationships to disclose.
