Inspire Your Team - Do a Theme

It's that time of year again, when vacations are over, summer play is behind us and school is on the horizon. And, it's time to recalibrate ourselves for new work rhythms as we move into the fall.

It's also this time of year when I'm asked to help clients do this with fall retreats for a department or team.

In doing so, we usually choose a theme. Every team needs a reboot or reset after a period of time and the changing season is great timing.

So consider leading our team into the fall with a "re" something, reboot, reset, retreat...you get my drift.

Where to Begin

I recommend surveying your team and getting their input for ideas. Then have them vote on which is most preferred. It's ideal to have this be a collective effort.

A team theme can range from a shared mission statement to a collective vision or even a fun, engaging motif or mantra that ties the group together. 

Why Should We Bother?

Here's why...neuroscience offers some compelling insights:

A team theme serves as a unifying factor, helping individuals feel a sense of belonging and purpose. According to research in social neuroscience, our brains are wired to connect with others. When team members share a common theme, it activates the brain's social networks, promoting feelings of inclusion and cohesion.

This is largely due to the release of oxytocin, a hormone that enhances bonding and trust among individuals. Oxytocin is often referred to as the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone," and its presence is crucial in establishing strong interpersonal connections.

Moreover, a team theme can enhance motivation and productivity. The human brain responds positively to patterns and consistency, which a team theme can provide. This consistency helps reduce cognitive load, allowing team members to focus more on their tasks rather than on navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and problem-solving, can operate more efficiently when there's a clear, consistent framework in place.

Additionally, a shared theme can foster a positive work culture. Dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, is released when individuals experience a sense of achievement and recognition within their team. ( I call this "team esteem".) A cohesive theme can create more opportunities for collective celebrations of success, reinforcing positive behavior and boosting overall morale.

So, adopting a team theme is not just about having fun with an engaging mantra; it's about leveraging the brain's natural tendencies to connect, bond, and thrive in a structured environment. By tapping into the principles of social neuroscience, teams can enhance cohesion, motivation, and productivity, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and effective work environment...even if that "environment" is remote.

And ultimately, what does that mean for you as a manager? A team that will be easier to lead, manage, and coach! It's a win for everyone!