I wonder, how many teams would you say you're part of right now?
In your work, church or charity?
And how well do you feel those teams are actually working?

Sometimes we struggle in teams because the truth is, they're not really teams. They're just a bunch of people showing up to do a task.

Of course, that's still really important. There's a job to be done. But there's a big difference between teamwork and task work.

So, how do you know if you're really building a team, or just managing tasks?

Here are four things I've been thinking about that make a team a team.

Firstly, people KNOW each other.
There's genuine time and space given for connection. This isn't about everyone bearing their soul, but it is about being real, sharing life and getting to know the people behind the tasks. It's about building relationships, not just getting results. “I know who you are and what you bring."

Secondly, people HELP each other.
No one operates in a silo, focused only on their own tasks. Yes, everyone needs to take responsibility for their contribution, but when someone needs support, others willingly step in. Because success isn't just about my task getting done, but our team succeeding together. “Your success is my success"

Thirdly, people APPRECIATE each other.
A simple "well done" or "thank you" can go such a long way. People need to know that who they are and what they bring really matters. Celebrating wins, recognising contributions and cheerleading each other aren't optional extras. They're part of what makes a team thrive. “I see you, and I value you."

Fourthly, people CHALLENGE each other.
Because people know, trust and genuinely want the best for each other, it's safe to challenge and be challenged. Healthy disagreement isn't seen as a threat to relationships, but an opportunity to sharpen our thinking, make better decisions and achieve better outcomes.  “I’m on your side, not on your case."

So, here's two questions to chew over: 

• When you look at the teams you're part of, how much of this is really happening? Are people simply getting their tasks done, or are they growing together as a team?
• What can you do to turn these four team practices into everyday habits?

Building a great team doesn't happen by accident.
It takes time, intentionality and a willingness to keep learning and growing together.

That's why we dig deeper into this whole theme in Session 5 (Building Outstanding Teams) of the Reboot Your Leadership experience. Whether you're just starting out in leadership or you've been leading teams for decades, taking a moment to step back, pause, and reflect with other leaders is always a life-giving, sharpening experience. 

You can join any time, but why not now? I personally love hosting these spaces where we bring leaders together to help each other, and I'm sure you'll be both blessed and a blessing.

Find out more HERE