Insights
Stepping Forward - The Hidden Power of Team Commitment
The psychology behind this approach aligns perfectly with James Clear's insights on identity-based habits in his book "Atomic Habits." When we incorporate something into our identity – whether it's being a committed team player or a coachable athlete – our actions naturally flow from that self-image. It's no longer about forcing ourselves to follow rules; it's about staying true to who we've declared ourselves to be.
My First Real Job: Team Lessons from the Gas Station
But the most valuable lessons weren't about job titles or task management. They were about people. I learned that compromise is essential - the work needs to get done, regardless of personal preferences. I discovered the importance of treating everyone as teammates, recognizing that we're all in it together, even if just for an eight-hour shift. Most importantly, I learned that maintaining a sense of fun makes everything easier. After all, it's just work - why not enjoy the process?
The Science of Team Chemistry
Organizational culture operates similarly. Every change—whether adding a new team member, losing someone to attrition, implementing layoffs, or reorganizing teams—creates a form of cultural chaos. Like molecules seeking their new energy state, teams need time to settle into a new equilibrium. This is when we discover our revised roles, establish communication patterns, and understand how decisions flow in the new environment.
Finding Purpose at Work? Here's What They Don't Tell You
We all know that finding purpose in our work is one of the most important factors in job satisfaction and overall happiness. Yet here's the uncomfortable truth: most of us find ourselves in roles that align more with our skills and market demand than our childhood dreams. And you know what? That's perfectly okay.
LEGO® Serious Play® Emerges as a Game-Changer in Team Development
In the ever-evolving landscape of business innovation and team development, a surprising contender has emerged: LEGO® Serious Play® (LSP). Despite being nearly 25 years old, this method is gaining significant traction, particularly in the United States. Let's explore why this playful yet powerful approach is climbing the ranks in the Gartner Hype Cycle for Innovation Practices, 2024.
Don’t Create Team Building Horror Stories
While team building horror stories abound, it's important to remember that effective, enjoyable, and meaningful team experiences are possible. At IN8 Create, we're committed to changing the narrative around team building, one LEGO brick at a time. By focusing on creativity, respect, and shared vision, we're helping teams build stronger connections – without the need for mountain treks, trauma circles, or soda swapping.
How Does Your Team Work Together?
In the world of team management, understanding the nature of your team's dynamics is crucial. Not all teams work together in the same way, and recognizing these differences can significantly impact leadership strategies, goal-setting, and overall team design.
The LEGO® Serious Play® Method Explained: The Share Phase
The share phase of LEGO® Serious Play isn't just about presenting ideas. It's a carefully crafted experience that brings out the best in teams. By compressing time, encouraging curiosity, equalizing voices, focusing discussions, leveraging metaphor, and infusing play into serious topics, LSP creates an environment where true collaboration can flourish.
The LEGO® Serious Play® Method Explained: The Build Phase
The build phase of LEGO® Serious Play is more than just a fun activity – it's a powerful tool for unlocking team potential, fostering creativity, and driving meaningful collaboration. By providing a structured yet playful environment for reflection and expression, LSP allows teams to tap into their collective wisdom and build towards a brighter future, one brick at a time.
Use This for Halloween Team Building
Nostalgia can bring us back to simpler times, and remembering joyful things. We also don't remember the stresses so much, hence why our memories are usually rosier than they were in real life. Also the lightness of Halloween can bring out the playfulness in everyone! Amp it up with some fun punch, mini candies, and of course pumpkin anything.
Do You Have “That Guy” on Your Team?
Have you had this discussion with your team? Are they holding people accountable in ways you are unaware of?Here’s a tip - Have a theoretical conversation on what it takes to be a good teammate. Have the team list out qualities and agree on a top 5 . If there is an issue on your team, a “quality” will be surfaced that is being broken.
Creating A Resilient, Future-Ready Workforce
In our recent "Build Your Future Workforce" workshop with the Westchester Human Resource Management Association (WHRMA), we explored a crucial question: What actions should companies take now to create a resilient, future-ready workforce? The responses from participants were diverse and insightful, highlighting the complexity of this challenge