As you know, I am an assertive advocate for action. Your success hinges on your ability to translate your vision into daily action. Creating a life of fulfillment and accomplishment demands your best efforts. But, you know what? Your best efforts are not enough.

Life is not a solo act. That's why it is critical that we develop relationships with others who share and support our goals. Teamwork is not optional. The fact is you are not a part of one team, but many teams, such as your associates, venders, customers, and family. Each team is unique, demanding specific input, communication, and actions.

Teamwork in Action

 For more than twenty years I've been teaming up with my high school best friend, Philip Solomon. Together we deliver a program which teaches and illustrates outstanding team performance. Earlier this month, we once again took the stage at the Borgato hotel in Atlantic City for the New Jersey Society for Oncology Managers (Sponsored by our good friends and partners at Oncology Supply). The performance rocked! You see, when Philip and I perform together, the entertainment value is multiplied by more than two. We use the power of live drumming and thrilling demonstrations of teamwork and trust (like throwing knives at each other) to magnify the message that our success is dependent on relationships.

Thinking back on our first meeting, this team relationship was unlikely. When we met, we were extremely different characters: Philip- a punk rock drummer with a green Mohawk, and me- a straight laced fan of jazz and performing juggler. But somehow we were able to look past our differences and find the essential ingredients for teamwork:

1. Commitment to excellence in our chosen skills.
2. Respect for excellence in others, wherever we saw it.
3. Shared values and goals- the desire to entertain audiences in a way that was uplifting and had high impact.

Do you share these ingredients with those on your teams?

By focusing on the commonalities instead of the difference, we decided to make a deal. I would teach Philip juggling and he would teach me drums. Little did we know that this collaboration would evolve into a team performance that would deepen our friendship, bring countless opportunities around the world, and help others to enhance the coordination of their teams, as well.

The Rhythm of Success

When Philip and I first began working together, we discovered that juggling and drumming, while distinctly different disciplines, share the same foundational structure- rhythm. Both the tapping of the sticks and the catching of the juggling clubs create audible patterns. Rhythm is what enabled us to combine our efforts and create an innovative performance.

There is also a rhythm you carry into all your interactions with others. This includes the language you use, the tempo (or pace with which you deliver your message), and the appropriate timing. These factors will determine whether your words and actions find a receptive partner and produce successful results.

Time for Action

Use the team juggling prop, the “club,” as an acronym for effective teamwork. Implement these principles during your next collaboration.

1. Communicate with Clarity- Use the language, tempo, and timing that is appropriate for your partner.
2. Listen Intently - Place your focus entirely on your partner and provide feedback that confirms you hear them.
3. Understand Completely - Ask questions, seek examples, and engage in experiences to further your understanding.
4. Build trust - It takes time to nurture a partnership. Start with simple but important exchanges, and build to greater levels of coordination and trust.

Now go create the Rhythm of Success. I'm proud to be part of your team!

Dan

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