The Art of Cooperation

A little time away from the day-to-day gives you a chance for a little change in perspective. So, today, let’s look at the subject of cooperation and why it is so important to have, as you move toward achieving your goals both as an individual and as an organization.

Change seldom happens in a vacuum. As we move toward our goals, we often must work together with other people. In organizations, this is vital. When you know how to cooperate, you are much more likely to get the help that allows you to change and grow successfully.

If you try to change without cooperation, you may find yourself stuck or even failing. Goals quickly slip out of reach. Cooperation can mean the difference between being supported and being sabotaged. It is an important skill to have.

How do you get others to cooperate with you? Well, any gardener will tell you that we reap what we sow. Look for opportunities to help other people and listen to their concerns. Along the same lines, stay open to suggestions and support when they are offered. You don’t have to wait for them to be offered. Ask for what you want and need, and that means knowing specifically what you want and from whom, as well as why you need it. Another’s trust in you and your word is a foundational factor in getting what you need.

Be willing to negotiate. Refrain from making demands. Compromise and trade talents and abilities, instead. Be realistic about what you expect from others, and don’t try to get all your needs met from just one person. Ask more people to do less, rather than expecting few people to do more, if that will make it more likely to get what you want.

When cooperation works as it should, everybody gains something, nobody loses, and you move more smoothly toward your goals – as an individual and as an organization.