I’ve been thinking a lot about the concept of a team. People like to use the phrase “team player” when describing their work ethic. They forget that being part of a team means that you fight for the victory of the team not yourself.  The best way to do this is to serve one another. That’s right. You heard correctly. You’ve been asked to serve. Let me guess, you’re above that. You’ve paid your dues and now somebody should be bringing YOU coffee (FYI, I like mine black /no sugar)…or at least you think.

This concept can best be related to through athletics and as a former volleyball player I can understand this phenomenon we call a team. Yes, in today’s environment and generation I call it a phenomenon as we are bombarded with the “It’s all about YOU” message. I submit to you that it is NOT all about you. What would your work environment look like if everyone bought into the idea that it is not about the individual but the overall team. It’s time to stop building your resume and start building your team. What would it look like if the CEO of your company brought YOU coffee. What kind of example would that set? Well, that’s just it. I am blessed to work in a company like that.

We all have roles and we all play a part but it’s always for the team. Respect is not an issue for us as serving one another is embedded into our culture. To succeed as a team we need a few critical things. First we need a leader. Our leadership is united and solid. We need direction. Leadership has provided this with a clear step by step plan for success followed up by daily personal interaction. We also need to serve and to do it without regard to ourselves or our personal gain. We put our pride and aspirations for personal gain aside and strive solely for the success of the team.

I would challenge you to take a step back and examine your role. Maybe you are just starting out or maybe you are the President and CEO of your company. Whatever the case, nobody is above serving someone else. Nobody.