In modern times, many of the skills that are important for business and professional success are also ones that foster good relationships. To be effective in today's highly interconnected world, people must learn to cooperate and communicate with each other. So it's no surprise that many organizations arrange team-building activities to foster better relationships and open communication. After all, these skills translate into productivity.
According to Margaret Wheatley in her seminal text, Leadership and the New Science, "The era of the rugged individual has been replaced by the era of the team player." She goes on to say that "leading an organization requires attention to the web of relationships through which all work is accomplished."
Even in middle school and high school, students are often required to participate in "outdoor education" programs which require collaborative efforts. Tasks are designed to get students working together in ways that foster cooperation. For example, my son's entire class of 25 eighth graders was given the challenge of getting the whole class over a wall that was too high for some. They could only succeed as a group if they helped each other.
Barb conducts a team building workshop using Latin Dance
Barb conducts a team building workshop with the Baltimore Ravfens Cheer Squad
In the corporate world, activities from paint ball and sailing to walking on hot coals (!!) are used as methods of pulling groups together. But Latin dancing offers a special kind of spirit and fun. There is no doubt that Latin group dancing is a superlative vehicle for fostering positive relationships and cooperation.
Copyright: 2003 by Barbara Bernstein
"A group becomes a team when each member is sure enough of himself and his contribution to praise the skill of the others."
Norman SHidle
"No matter what accomplishments you make, somebody helps you."
Althea Gibson
