Staff Cohesion: PART 7 of 12 - How Flexibility Impacts Staff Cohesion
This week I am sharing with you the seventh of twelve key categories I believe are important in building unprecedented staff cohesion: Flexibility.
Last week we embarked upon the topic of Building Trust and how it can positively impact staff cohesion. This week I am writing about how flexibility impacts staff cohesion. Again, as I mentioned in my last article, I could focus on the negative such as how a lack of flexibility stifles and controls an organization and its staff into rupture and dysfunction but I won’t. Focusing on the negative is rarely as helpful as focusing on what we can do as opposed to what we shouldn’t do. So, let’s dive in!
The Power of Flexibility: Fostering Staff Cohesion the Easygoing Way
Let's talk about something that's often underestimated but truly makes a difference: flexibility. In the world of staff cohesion, it's like a secret ingredient that can transform a group of individuals into a tight-knit, supportive, and caring team. You may have guessed already that we're not talking about inflexible schedules and rigid rules. This is all about going with the flow, adapting to change, and, believe it or not, having fun (my favorite part) along the way.
Flexibility: A Super Glue for Teams
Imagine flexibility as the super glue that binds a team together. It's not about sticking to the old ways; it's about being open to new ideas, approaches, and perspectives. In a flexible environment, team members are encouraged to adapt and adjust, which leads to smoother collaborations and a sense of unity. When you're flexible, you're more likely to lend a helping hand, which is essential for team cohesion.
Adapting to Change with a Smile
Change is a constant in today's fast-paced world. In fact, Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher, is quoted as saying "change is the only constant in life". A flexible team doesn't just survive change; they thrive on it. They see challenges as opportunities for growth, not obstacles. This approach inspires innovation and a shared commitment to overcoming hurdles. When team members adapt to change with a positive attitude, and even a smile, it brings a breath of fresh air to the workplace and creates a dynamic atmosphere.
Laughing Through It Together
Flexibility isn't just about handling big changes; it's also about having a sense of humor. A workplace that can laugh at and even celebrate its quirks and occasional hiccups is a workplace that enjoys staff cohesion. Laughter bonds people, reduces stress, and makes collaboration smoother. When you can laugh together, you build stronger connections and a more relaxed atmosphere. This kind of learning and growing environment also makes it safer for people to admit their mistakes sooner because they know they are growing together. And, the best news is that this results in fewer desperate situations.
Call to Action: Let's Embrace Flexibility
So, what can we do to bring more flexibility into our workplaces and boost staff cohesion?
1. Embrace Change: Make a commitment to be open to change and view it as an opportunity for growth. Encourage your colleagues to do the same. This change-friendly attitude can be infectious.
2. Lighten the Atmosphere: Don't take yourself too seriously. Find opportunities to bring humor into your workplace. Organize fun activities, celebrate victories no matter what the size, and create an environment where laughter is welcome.
3. Encourage Innovation: Foster a culture where new ideas are not only accepted but celebrated. Encourage your team to share their creative solutions and be open to trying out fresh approaches. When you embrace flexibility and innovation, you're on the path to building staff cohesion that's anything but ordinary.
Reflection and Sharing
I would love for you to reflect a bit on Flexibility in the workplace.
How do you define flexibility for you on a personal level?
What would flexibility look like for you in the workplace?
Is it easy, difficult, or somewhere in-between for you to be flexible? What would it take for you to add a small dose of flexibility this week?
In conclusion, remember the importance of flexibility in the workplace can't be overstated. It's yet another key to fostering staff cohesion, and it all starts with you. Let's be the champions of adaptability, the bearers of good humor, and the catalysts of innovation in our workplaces. It's time to make staff cohesion a whole lot more fun!
Can't wait to hear your thoughts and experiences on this week’s topic! So, please share them with me!
In solidarity and with love,
Misha Safran, PCC, MA
Leader and Organizational Trainer and Coach, Author, and Speaker
