Based on Margaret Heffernan's video: "Why it's time to forget the pecking order at work" I can deduce that the majority of us, if not all, have experienced individual and team success. Perhaps we haven't taken the time to reflect on how we achieved it and what happened with our surroundings, as Heffernan discusses. Maybe we could have noticed the absence of "chickens" around us and how we reached the top alone or with very few others. It's important to interpret and internalize how important we all are on this journey towards success. Some cultures do not promote this kind of communication. For example, it's very common here to hear that nobody knows who lives next door, or who your neighbor is. In my first year as a teacher, that was one of the factors that affected me the most. Every teacher wanted to work in their own way, and even though we had mandatory meetings to share our perspectives and plans, there was a noticeable apathy among my colleagues. I have no doubt that we were all brilliant, but each wanted to showcase their results from their own strengths.
In this master's program, I can say that we have worked as a team, and a few days ago, I told them that we were super nerds in the best sense because we have supported each other, helped one another, and all demonstrated a strong commitment to keeping everyone on the raft until we reach the port with the best we have. In this team, asking for help strengthens our connections, and receiving it even more! Just as Heffernan explains, these connections reinforce the bonds, loyalty, and trust among us.
How do you feel now about your environment? About your work team, your study group, your neighbors... Are you someone who asks for and provides help? Have you thought about this?
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