Toxic Distraction: Tension On The Team
The problems we have with each other destroy us. External challenges invite teams to depend on each other. But we can’t rise when we beat each other down.
Healthy teams pull with, but strife escalates when ignored.
Turmoil diminishes when tension on the team finds resolution.
Healthy Tension On The Team:
Agree on the mission. When the mission isn’t clear, tactics don’t matter.
Disagreement about how to move forward strengthens teams. Arguments over where to go defeat us.
Confronting Tension On The Team:
The people we can’t confront run the team.
The actions we tolerate establish standards.
- Practice kind candor. Say what you see. Don’t blame, describe.
- Establish standards. “We treat each other ….” Describe expected behaviors. Illustrate unacceptable actions.
- Explain consequences. “What do we do when someone violates our standards?” Consequences reinforce culture.
Recently I coached a high-performing leader who is great at setting goals for results. But it’s time to set goals for relationships.
Build environments where people love showing up for work.
Describe Success:
“What would happen if things were going great?” Typically, people define success by results, but tension is rooted in behavior.
“What behaviors would we see if things were going great?” Imagine interactions that strengthen relationships and produce positive results.
Fill in the blank, “If things were going great, we would see….” If you can’t see it, don’t talk about it.
Which ideas in this post take priority in your view?
What should be added to this post?
Still curious:
Conversation Starters that Enable Conflict Resolution
6 Steps to Conflict Resolution in the Workplace
