 Almighty Allah (SWT) says in the Noble Qur'an: "And hold fast all together by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you) and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah's favor on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love so that by His grace ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of fire and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make his signs clear to you: that ye may be guided." Noble Qur'an (3:103)
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: Faithful believers are to each other as the bricks of a wall, supporting and reinforcing each other. So saying, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) clasped his hands by interlocking his fingers. [Sahih al-Bukhari]
In Islam, Allah (SWT) gives us the gift of brotherhood and sisterhood and encourages us to do things in a group setting or Team Work. Examples where Islam encourages team spirit are Juma prayers and Hajj Pilgrimage. In fact, if we fail to work effectively as a member of team, we fail to understand the true meaning of "Ummah (collectively united Community)" in Islam.
Teamwork is defined in Webster's New World Dictionary as "a joint action by a group of people, in which each person subordinates his or her individual interests and opinions to the unity and efficiency of the group." This does not mean that the individual is no longer important; however, it does mean that effective and efficient teamwork goes beyond individual accomplishments. The most effective teamwork is produced when all the individuals involved harmonize their contributions and work towards a common goal.
Lessons from Geese provide a perfect example of the importance of teamwork and how it can have a profound and powerful effect on our life. When we use these five principles in our personal life it will help us to foster and encourage a level of passion and energy in ourselves, as well as those who are our friends, associates or team members.
It is essential to remember that teamwork happens when it is continually nurtured and encouraged.
Once a wise man said - Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. As the old saying goes, two heads are better than one.
Scientists have found that Geese flying in formation can travel around 71% further in a session than Geese flying solo. Working together on the task of flying is beneficial in a number of ways:
Lesson 1 - The Importance of Achieving Common Goals
Aerodynamic Formation - The V formation of Geese is a way that maximizes the energy expended by those flying as part of it. The bird at the front of the flock breaks the air for those flying behind it and creates a slipstream for them to be dragged along in. The birds behind also help those in front as the upward motion of their wing also create an upward draft that propels them forward. This push/pull relationship ensures all birds in the formation benefit from the work of others.
Outcome: When we have a sense of "Ummah (collectively united Community)" and focus, we create trust and can help each other to achieve our common goals.
Lesson 2 - The Importance of Team Work (Teamwork)
When a goose leaves the formation, he feels the resistance of the air and the difficulties of flying alone. Then, he quickly comes back to the formation to take advantage of the flock's power in front of him.
Outcome: If we had as much sense as Geese we would stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We are willing to accept their help and give our help to others. Sharing the same direction and working as a team, get us to the destination quicker and easier. By helping ourselves, the accomplishments are greater.
Lesson 3 - The Importance of Sharing (Sharing Leadership)
 Rotating Leadership - Even with the pushing effect of those behind it - the front bird uses the most energy and becomes tired more quickly than others. The Geese know that and instinctively rotate leadership of the flock - allowing tired birds who have used a lot of energy for the sake of the flock to take a rest and be dragged a long for a while until it is there next turn up front.
Outcome: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks. We should respect and protect each other's unique arrangement of skills, capabilities, talents and resources.
Lesson 4 - The Importance of Empathy and Understanding
Dropping out of the Flock - as a result of sickness or injury a bird will occasionally begin to fall away from the flock - unable to keep up. Instead of allowing this bird to fly on alone - at least two others will always drop out of the flock with it. This ensures that the injured bird will be defended and cared for until it is ready to resume flying - and that it will fly on with the benefit of flying in formation.
Outcome: If we have as much sense as Geese we will stand by each other. Let's stay beside each other no matter what the differences, especially in times of difficulty and great challenges. If we bond together and support each other, if we make true the spirit of teamwork, regardless of our differences, we can rise to meet our challenge.
Lesson 5 - The Importance of Encouragement
Power of the Honk - From the ground the V formation of the Geese is a beautiful thing to watch - serenely gliding across the sky these birds look quite majestic and peaceful. However get up into the flock and you find it's quite a noisy affair with the Geese constantly honking at one another. There are numerous theories about this honking and it could be partly about letting each other know where they are so there is no midair collision. But many believe that this honking is actually about creating an environment of success and mutual encouragement.
Geese flying in formation 'Honk' to encourage those up front to keep up with their speed.
Outcome: We need to make sure our honking is encouraging. In groups and teams where there is encouragement, production is much greater. 'Individual empowerment results from quality honking'.
As a result of some of these principles the Geese can fly amazing distances without stopping for rest - so much further than if they tried to do it alone. Humans, like Geese, were created to work together and to support one another. When we encourage each other and support our leaders we can accomplish amazing things, much more than trying to work alone. |
