Simple Yet Effective Tips to Work Together as a Team

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) is celebrated on 6th April as a way to recognise the positive effect of sports on people and communities around the world. When we play sports, we learn some important skills like, teamwork – working well with others, communicating effectively, and being a good leader.  That is why today, on this occasion, we are going to explore how to work together as a team. 

Tips to work together as a team 

Whether you like playing team sport or not, you need to know how to be a team player and work with others as a team. Here are some simple tips that will help you become a better team player. 

• Understand how working as a team is important in everyday life. Start at home; try to notice the teamwork involved in cooking, cleaning and other household chores like laundry, grocery shopping and so on. 
• Be thoughtful. Helping out a team member is one of the important aspects of working in a team. Being thoughtful, thinking of things from another team member’s perspective and lending a helping hand are an excellent way of becoming a better team player. 
• Learn the right way to say what you think and feel. Expressing yourself clearly and respectfully goes a long way while working in a team. You also need to pay close attention to what other team members are saying and, when needed, ask probing questions to find out more about the team’s goals and priorities.
• Spot opportunities for teamwork. Notice opportunities around you where you can practise your team member skills. Discussing the missed opportunities with your parents and siblings would also be helpful. 

• Develop a positive attitude towards teamwork. Working in a team can be tough at times, especially when you don’t get your way. Think of all the ways this collaboration can lead to better outcomes down the road. Don’t forget to ask for help if you find it confusing along the way. 
• Set ground rules with the team. Setting ground rules in advance like who is working on what, who gets to decide what and so on for the team members is a great way to start working towards a common goal. It can help you stay focused and work better together. 

Remember that working together as a team will take some time initially. Be prepared to feel overwhelmed. The only way to become a better team member is via practise. Keep a positive attitude towards the members of your team and ask for help whenever you need it. Do keep in mind that your parents and teachers are there to help you out. 

So, why not learn/ practice teamwork by playing team sports with your family and friends? This can be a great way not only learn while having fun, but also to honour the spirit of International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP). 

Do you think that you are a good team member? Have any tips for others? Let us know in the comments section. 

Also read, 

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