Eleven Rings : The Power of Teamwork and Trust

DeadThree - Coaching and Leadership Development

The Shift from 'Me' to 'We'

Phil Jackson, legendary coach and author of Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success, shares a profound truth: “Good teams become great ones when the members trust each other enough to surrender the 'Me' for the 'We.'” This statement highlights the essence of what transforms a group of talented individuals into a truly cohesive and successful team.

Trust and selflessness are the foundations of greatness. In any team—whether in sports, business, or life—true success comes not from individual accolades but from collective effort. When team members prioritize the group’s success over personal recognition, they create an environment where collaboration thrives, innovation flourishes, and everyone is inspired to give their best.

How often do we let ego or individual goals get in the way of team progress? Building a great team requires every member to embrace the mindset of “We over Me.”

Why Trust Transforms Teams

Trust isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the glue that holds a team together. Without trust, collaboration is superficial, and efforts are fragmented. But with trust, teams achieve synergy—where the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts.

Leaders play a pivotal role in fostering trust. When leaders model humility, authenticity, and a commitment to the team’s success, they set the tone for others to follow. A culture of trust encourages open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to support one another through challenges.

Moreover, selflessness amplifies trust. When team members see their peers putting the collective good first, they’re more likely to do the same. This shared commitment builds unity, resilience, and a sense of belonging that drives sustained success.

Three Actions to Build Trust and Selflessness Today

1. Celebrate Collective Wins: Shift the focus from individual achievements to team accomplishments. Acknowledge how everyone’s contributions made success possible.

2. Model Vulnerability: Share your challenges and ask for support when needed. This demonstrates trust in your team and encourages them to do the same.

3. Foster Open Dialogue: Create spaces for team members to voice their ideas, concerns, and feedback. Listening without judgment builds trust and strengthens connections.