Teams365 Blog - POTENTIALS REALIZED

teams 365 #3465: Flashback Friday Monthly Planning

6/30/2023

It’s time for another month in review and monthly planning session, as we round out the month.

1. As you reflect on June, what have been your successes and accomplishments?
2 What are you most proud of?
3. What successes this month do you want to duplicate? What has been some of your key learning?
4. What key relationships have helped you so far this year? Which ones need more attention?
5 What has helped your successes? What has hindered?
6. What does your team need to be acknowledged for?

As you look to July, consider these questions:
1. What are your key priorities for June?
2. What are the key goals?
3. What are the major priorities?
4. What will you need to place attention on?
5. What changes do you want to make in July?
6. What resources do you want to tap into?
7. By the end of the month, what do you want to make sure you have completed?

Enjoy your reflections and happy July!

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3464: Unleashing the Power of Strategic Thinking: Key Elements for Success

6/29/2023

Introduction: Strategic thinking is a vital skill that enables individuals and organizations to navigate complex challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve long-term goals. It involves a forward-thinking approach that goes beyond day-to-day tasks and focuses on the bigger picture. In this blog post, we will explore the core elements of strategic thinking and how they contribute to success.

Vision and Clarity: A clear and compelling vision is the foundation of strategic thinking. It provides a sense of direction and purpose, guiding decision-making and actions. Strategic thinkers are adept at envisioning the future and articulating a clear path towards it. They have a deep understanding of their goals, values, and the desired outcomes, which helps them make informed choices that align with the larger vision.
Analytical Thinking: Strategic thinking requires analytical skills to assess complex situations, identify patterns, and gather relevant data. It involves the ability to break down problems into manageable components, evaluate various options, and anticipate potential outcomes. Analytical thinkers critically analyze information, draw connections, and make informed decisions based on sound reasoning, ultimately optimizing their strategic approaches.
Long-term Perspective: While tactical thinking focuses on immediate objectives, strategic thinking takes a long-term perspective. Strategic thinkers understand the importance of considering the consequences and implications of their decisions beyond the present moment. They weigh short-term gains against long-term benefits and consider the sustainability and impact of their actions on the organization's overall success and growth.
Adaptability and Agility: Strategic thinkers embrace change and demonstrate adaptability and agility in their decision-making. They understand that the business landscape is constantly evolving, and they are open to adjusting their strategies to meet new challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. They possess a growth mindset and view setbacks as learning experiences, allowing them to pivot and adapt their plans accordingly.
Collaboration and Communication: Effective strategic thinking is not an isolated process but involves collaboration and communication. Strategic thinkers engage with diverse perspectives, seek input from others, and foster a collaborative environment. They actively listen, communicate their vision and strategy clearly, and inspire and motivate their teams towards a common goal. They understand the value of leveraging collective intelligence and building strong relationships to achieve strategic success.

Strategic thinking is a valuable skill that empowers individuals and organizations to thrive in today's dynamic and competitive landscape. By incorporating the core elements of vision and clarity, analytical thinking, a long-term perspective, adaptability and agility, and collaboration and communication, individuals can unlock their strategic potential and drive meaningful and sustainable outcomes.

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3463: Harnessing the Power of Mindfulness: Effective Techniques for Daily Practice

6/28/2023

In our fast-paced, hectic lives, cultivating mindfulness has become essential for maintaining balance, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment. In this blog post, we will explore effective mindfulness techniques that you can incorporate into your daily routine.

Breath Awareness: One of the fundamental techniques in mindfulness is breath awareness. Take a few moments each day to focus on your breath. Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Observe the sensation of your breath as it enters and leaves your body. This simple practice helps anchor your attention to the present moment, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Body Scan: The body scan technique involves systematically directing your attention to different parts of your body, noticing any sensations or tensions without judgment. Start from the top of your head and gradually move down to your toes, paying attention to each body part. This practice promotes body awareness and can help release physical tension, fostering a greater connection between the mind and body.
Mindful Walking: Engaging in mindful walking is an excellent way to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. Whether you're walking outdoors or indoors, slow down your pace and bring your attention to the sensation of your feet touching the ground. Notice the movement of your body as you take each step. Be present and observe your surroundings without judgment, allowing yourself to fully experience the act of walking.
Loving-Kindness Meditation: Loving-kindness meditation involves directing positive and compassionate intentions towards yourself and others. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and repeat phrases such as "May I be happy, may I be healthy, may I be at peace." Then extend these wishes to loved ones, acquaintances, and even difficult individuals. This practice cultivates empathy, compassion, and a sense of interconnectedness with others, promoting emotional well-being.
Mindful Eating: In our fast-paced culture, we often eat mindlessly, missing out on the opportunity to fully enjoy our meals. Practicing mindful eating involves savoring each bite, paying attention to the taste, texture, and aroma of the food. Slow down, chew thoroughly, and bring your awareness to the act of nourishing your body. This practice enhances the pleasure of eating and helps develop a healthier relationship with food.

Incorporating mindfulness techniques into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your well-being. By practicing breath awareness, body scans, mindful walking, loving-kindness meditation, and mindful eating, you can cultivate a greater sense of presence, reduce stress, and enhance your overall quality of life. Start small, be consistent, and discover the transformative power of mindfulness in your life.

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3462: Renew This Summer: Embrace Self-Care and Rejuvenation

6/27/2023

Summer is a season of warmth, sunshine, and renewal. It offers a perfect opportunity to rejuvenate and revitalize ourselves after a long year. In this blog post, we will explore some essential tips and activities to help you renew your body, mind, and spirit this summer, allowing you to embrace self-care and create a sense of balance and well-being.

Connect with Nature: Take advantage of the longer daylight hours and pleasant weather by spending time in nature. Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or a day at the beach, immersing yourself in natural surroundings can have a profound impact on your well-being. Nature provides a sense of calm, reduces stress, and renews our energy levels.
Unplug and Recharge: In this digital age, it's crucial to take breaks from technology and give yourself permission to disconnect. Designate specific times during the day to unplug from electronic devices, social media, and work-related responsibilities. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading a book, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or enjoying a hobby you love.
Prioritize Self-Care: Summer is the ideal time to prioritize self-care. Make a conscious effort to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Focus on nourishing your body with healthy foods, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise. Practice self-reflection and incorporate activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as practicing yoga, journaling, or taking soothing baths.
Explore New Experiences: Use this summer as an opportunity to try new things and explore different experiences. Step out of your comfort zone and engage in activities that ignite your curiosity and passion. Whether it's learning a new skill, taking a cooking class, or embarking on an adventure, embracing new experiences can bring a sense of excitement and rejuvenation to your life.
Cultivate Meaningful Connections: Renewal also comes from nurturing and cultivating meaningful relationships. Spend quality time with loved ones, plan gatherings, and engage in activities that foster connection and create lasting memories. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people can significantly contribute to your overall well-being and renewal.

As the sun shines brightly and nature comes alive, summer presents us with an incredible opportunity to renew ourselves. By connecting with nature, taking breaks from technology, prioritizing self-care, exploring new experiences, and cultivating meaningful connections, you can embrace the spirit of renewal and create a summer filled with rejuvenation and well-being.

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3461: Core Ingredients for a Great Onboarding Process

6/26/2023

ChatGPT

An effective onboarding process is crucial for setting new employees up for success. It not only ensures a smooth transition into their roles but also helps foster a positive work environment. To create a memorable onboarding experience, certain core ingredients need to be incorporated. In this blog post, we will explore these essential elements.

Clear Communication: Clear communication is the cornerstone of any successful onboarding process. It begins even before the employee's first day by providing them with comprehensive information about their role, responsibilities, and expectations. Throughout the onboarding period, regular and transparent communication should be maintained to address any questions or concerns that arise.
Well-Structured Orientation: A well-structured orientation program is vital for acclimating new employees to the organization's culture, values, and mission. It should include sessions on company history, organizational structure, and introductions to key team members. Offering insights into the company's vision and goals will help new hires understand their role within the broader context.
Personalized Approach: Recognizing that each employee is unique, a great onboarding process should be tailored to individuals' needs. Customized training plans and mentorship opportunities allow new hires to build relationships, gain relevant knowledge, and develop skills specific to their roles. By catering to their strengths and interests, organizations can accelerate the integration process.
Ongoing Support and Feedback: A successful onboarding process doesn't end after the first week or month. It is essential to provide continuous support to new employees as they navigate their roles and responsibilities. Regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and opportunities for professional development demonstrate the organization's commitment to their growth and success.
Engaging Company Culture: Fostering a positive and engaging company culture contributes significantly to the onboarding experience. Encouraging social connections, team-building activities, and providing opportunities for new employees to contribute their ideas and perspectives help them feel valued and connected to the organization's mission, enhancing their overall job satisfaction.

Conclusion: A well-executed onboarding process is a strategic investment in the long-term success of new employees. By incorporating clear communication, a well-structured orientation, personalized approaches, ongoing support and feedback, and an engaging company culture, organizations can create a positive onboarding experience that sets their employees up for growth, productivity, and job satisfaction.

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3460: Week in Review

6/25/2023

We’ve explored a range of topics again this week, as we’ve stepped into a new season. If you haven’t had the opportunity to take 15 minutes for the seasonal reflection, take a look back at Wednesday’s post. Here’s what we covered this week:

Saturday – Weekly Jounraling Prompt – What’s Going to Spark Some Fun?
Friday Flashback – Collaboration Influencers (From The First Year of the Teams365 blog in 2014)
Thursday - Teams on Thursday – What is systems theory?
Wednesday - Celebrating the Start of Summer – Reflection Spot
Tuesday – Ways to Connect Team Members Around Results and Relationships
Monday: Boosting Collaboration in Teams: Key Strategies for Success

Have a great start to the week!

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

teams 365 #3459: Weekly Jounraling Prompt – What’s Going to Spark Some Fun?

6/24/2023

It’s the first full weekend of summer. What’s going to spark some fun for you?
Here are 15 quotes on fun to get some ideas started for you:

"You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation." - Plato

"Fun is not a luxury, it's a necessity for a well-balanced life." - Richard Branson

"In every real man, a child is hidden that wants to play." - Friedrich Nietzsche

"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter." - E.E. Cummings

"Life is more fun if you play games." - Roald Dahl

"Fun is good." - Dr. Seuss

"The purpose of fun is to live it, not capture it." - Jon Acuff

"Fun is the fuel that powers creativity." - Unknown

"The opposite of play is not work, it's depression." - Brian Sutton-Smith

"Fun is like life insurance; the older you get, the more it costs." - Kin Hubbard

"The moments of happiness we enjoy take us by surprise. It is not that we seize them, but that they seize us." - Ashley Montagu

"Fun is the secret ingredient that makes the impossible possible." - Unknown

"Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face." - Victor Hugo

"Fun is the foundation of success." - Louis Gerstner

"Fun is the purest form of enjoyment and the highest form of learning." - Albert Einstein

Enjoy!

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3458: Friday Flashback – Collaboration Influencers (From The First Year of the Teams365 blog in 2014)

6/23/2023

I thought I’d reach right back to our archives and I am republishing Teams365 #26 from January of 2014 where I wrote the following about Collaboration Influencers. What do you notice about what’s the same and what’s shifted?
#TEAMS 365 #25: COLLABORATION INFLUENCERS
1/25/2014
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This week we've been looking at the teamwork skill of Collaboration. I appreciate this quote from Morten Hanson's book, Collaboration, which cautions us that poor collaboration is worse than no collaboration at all.

In my work with teams I find that team collaboration is impacted by:

-Styles of the individual members. I work a lot with teams in helping them understand their individual styles and how that impacts their results and relationships. One of the most popular assessments I use is the Everything DiSC. We know that different styles have different preferences for collaboration. For example, my own style is a mix of D and i. The D in me is always striving for results, whereas the i in me seeks relationships to make it happen. How do the styles of different team members impact collaboration.

- The Six Factors of High Performing Teams. An earlier post explored these six factors. They involve creating shared expectations and measurements for the team. Collaboration is grounded in a shared foundation.

-Skills : Collaboration is also a skill set which can be learned as we will see in future posts.

-The Culture of the Team and Organization, including Vision and Values: The culture of an organization and team has a profound impact on the level of collaboration. The vision and values of a team and organization will also influence the level of collaboration. If part of a team's vision is to have solid relationships with customers it is more likely that collaboration will be valued and fostered. Those things that are rewarded in an organization are usually done more frequently. If people are being rewarded for individual contribution it is likely that collaboration will be harder to achieve.
Enjoy your conversations!
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3457: Teams on Thursday – What is systems theory?

6/22/2023

ChatGPT

Systems theory for teams is an approach that views a team as a complex system composed of interconnected and interdependent parts. It recognizes that the functioning and effectiveness of a team cannot be understood by examining its individual members in isolation, but rather by understanding the interactions and relationships among the team members and how they collectively contribute to the team's overall performance.

In systems theory, a team is seen as a dynamic entity that is influenced by both internal and external factors. It emphasizes the interplay between various elements, such as team structure, communication patterns, roles, and processes, and how they shape team dynamics and outcomes. Systems theory helps in understanding the team as a whole, rather than focusing solely on individual actions or behaviors.

Key concepts of systems theory for teams include:

Interdependence: Recognizing that team members are interconnected and rely on each other to achieve common goals. Actions or changes in one part of the team can have ripple effects on other parts of the team.
Feedback: Understanding that teams receive feedback from their environment, including stakeholders, clients, or other teams. Feedback can be used to assess performance, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments.
Emergence: Acknowledging that the team's behavior and performance may emerge from the interactions and relationships among team members. It emphasizes the importance of studying patterns and processes rather than just focusing on individual behaviors.
Boundaries: Identifying the boundaries of the team and how it interacts with its external environment. Understanding the team's relationship with external factors and how it impacts its functioning.
Complexity: Recognizing that teams are complex systems with numerous interconnected elements. This complexity requires a holistic approach to understanding and managing team dynamics.

Systems theory for teams provides a framework for analyzing and improving team effectiveness. It highlights the importance of considering the team as a whole and understanding the interactions and dynamics within it. By recognizing the interconnectedness of team members and the broader context, teams can enhance communication, collaboration, and overall performance.

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.

Teams 365 #3456: Celebrating the Start of Summer – Reflection Spot

6/21/2023

As we step into Summer in the Northern Hemisphere, and Winter in the Southern, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how things our going – our successes, learning and adjustments we want to make.
Here are several questions to use to reflect on for a few minutes as we step into a new season:
Here are some questions to consider as we move into a new season:

What worked well in the last season was....
What didn't work so well was....
Key accomplishments over the summer/winter were....
My key learning was....

Looking ahead:
My priorities this season are....

Key focus areas are....

My team's priorities this season are....
Something I/we want to do more of is....Less of is...
One habit I/we want to hone this season is....
One thing I/we want to stop doing is.....
I/We will know we have been successful at the start/end of season when....
I will know I have been successful at the start of season when....
Key relationships to focus on this season are...
Key projects to focus on this season are....

Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326

Check out my TEDx talk

Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my new book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon.