The best workplaces keep you challenged, appreciated and connected. Working in groups has a specific dynamic and a pecking order not unlike that famous fly infested island. The first time that individuals in work groups compete is useful to determine the degree to which each participant will be artificially influenced by going for the win. Some participants will be turned off by the game and others might never be influenced to partake. Once clear winners are seen in each challenge, the competitive value deteriorates. Peer to peer competition often backfires if overused and ends up sending shrapnel everywhere. The wounds are inflicted on everyone. The race to the middle is the result. Advantage lost.
True connection will encourage better results and build coalitions. Secret methods are shared and skills develop naturally. The entire team develops instead of just a few go-getters.
Remember that kid who was always picked last? Reaching a midpoint would be a win for this player in many ways after years of anxiety from the prior assaults on the ego. This kid now moves into the ranks of those who can compete and miracles happen.
So, does racing for the middle have a negative effect on those who could easily win? In some cases, it could, because they might not see the advantage of working up to their potential or remove themselves in self-boredom. The cost should not outdo the good and that is when properly paired teams worked well. The alpha can lead the middle player closer to the goal while building up their own skill set. The chance to lead on a small scale teaches priceless lessons. Success in this endeavor is a bonus over the usual work expectations. Because leaders often don’t give others the chance to practice these skills, the entire operation benefits.
Where are you racing to most days? Are you aware of what motivates you to perform well? Can you tell your boss what that is so you have a chance to succeed past the ordinary expectations?
