Collaboration: Working Together is the Key for Success

We thrive off each other. It is our human nature whether we like it or not. From a young age, each of us develops close relationships, relies on the support of family members, and has daily interactions with peers. During the early stages of development, we have no idea that this social process is taking place. However, it is an inevitable and integral part of our lives that is undoubtedly shaping who we are and will become. Little do we know that "Mama and DaDa", some of the first words typically uttered by infants, represent just two of the important relationships we will have during our lives. They are just two of the many people who will come into our lives and challenge us, define us, and support us in so many ways.

If we "flash forward" about twenty or even thirty years, nothing has changed. Maybe you are a collegiate student on the brink of graduating and beginning a professional career. Maybe you are in the midst of adulthood and your career, family, and personal life are well on their way. Whatever stage you may be in, there is one common thread linking us all together: our relationships. Love them or hate them, we have to work together to promote the success of our personal and professional endeavors by thriving off those around us. We have to work successfully with others in order to be human, to be accepted, and to be "something" in this game we call life.

In terms of professional and career development, teachers are a great example of how important teamwork and positive peer relationships are in the workplace. In the educational sphere, this kind of approach is called collaboration, something that can make or break the success of a class, a school, or district. Teachers often come into the classroom with their own ideals, goals, and objectives. These have often been long ingrained into their minds and reflect the deep sentiments of their educational backgrounds and cultural ideals. Bringing in this is "previous knowledge" is inevitable. However, controlling the way we manifest it is the central factor to our success in both our personal and professional lives.

It is my hope that teachers can break these inherent biases or preconcieved notions of "how things work" . In order for true collaboration and teamwork to exist among teachers and all professionals for that matter, everyone needs a fresh start. I’m not saying to throw out everything you’ve learned and enter your professional field with a blank slate or new canvas, just waiting for the "art" to be applied. Rather, I’m encouraging a certain open-mindedness paired with previous knowledge and experience. This involves having respect for your colleagues, being considerate of new ideas, and approaching decisions in a team oriented manner that is by no means selfish or individualistic. We can use our own backgrounds in an effective manner while being part of a team at the same time. It's really all about balance, approachablity, and respect.

So, I think it’s time for everyone to hop off their high horse. (if they haven’t already). Sometimes, the most effective progress can be made if we take the time to humble ourselves and accept the criticisms, encouragement, and ideas of others. Man was not created to live alone, but instead to live in conjunction with everyone they come across. Ideally, this kind of community allows each relationship we have to teach us something new, thereby modling us into a better rounded person. Just think of the progress that could be made if everyone began to move toward this kind of approach not only in their professional endeavors, but in their personal lives as well. I really think a lot of barriers could be broken. So go on and push yourself to collaborate, team-build, engage in effective communication, and rely on the experience of others sometimes. We can’t do everything alone and that is a-okay.