Islam and Teamwork (Team Work): Islam and Leadership, Islam and Consultation

Almighty Allah (SWT) says in the Noble Qur'an: "Andhold fast all
together by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you) and be not
divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitudeAllah's favor on
you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in loveso that by
His grace ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of
fire and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make his signs clearto
you: that ye may be guided." Noble Qur'an (3:103)
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: Faithful believers are to each other as
the bricks of a wall, supporting and reinforcing each other. So
saying, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) clasped his hands by interlocking
his fingers. [Sahih al-Bukhari]
In Islam, Allah (SWT) givesus the gift of brotherhood and sisterhood
and encourages us to do things in a group setting or Team Work.
Examples where Islam encourages team spirit are Juma prayers and Hajj
Pilgrimage. In fact, if we fail to work effectively as a member of
team, we fail to understand the true meaning of "Ummah(collectively
united Community)" in Islam.
Teamwork is defined in Webster's New World Dictionary as "a joint
action by a group of people, in which each person subordinates his or
her individual interests and opinions to the unity and efficiency of
the group." This does not mean that the individual is no longer
important; however, it does mean that effective and efficient teamwork
goes beyond individual accomplishments. The most effective teamwork is
produced when all the individuals involved harmonize their
contributions and work towards a common goal.
Lessons from Geese provide a perfect example of the importance of
teamwork and how it can have a profound and powerful effect on our
life. When we use these five principles in our personallife it will
help us to foster and encourage a level of passion and energy in
ourselves, as well as those who are our friends, associates or team
members.
It is essential to remember that teamwork happens whenit is
continually nurtured and encouraged.
Once a wise man said - Two people can accomplish more than twice as
much as one; they get a better return for their labor. As the old
saying goes, two heads are better than one.
Scientists have found that Geese flying in V formation can travel
around 71% further in a session than Geese flying solo (alone).
Working together on the task of flying is beneficial in a number of
ways:
Lesson 1 - The Importance of Achieving Common Goals
Aerodynamic Formation -The V formation of Geese is a way that
maximizes the energy expended by those flying as part of it. The bird
at the front of the flock breaks the air for those flying behind it
and creates a slipstream for them to be dragged along in. The birds
behind also help those in front as the upward motion of their wing
alsocreate an upward draft that propels them forward. This push/pull
relationship ensures all birds in the formation benefit from the work
of others.
Outcome: When we have a sense of "Ummah (collectively united
Community)" and focus, we create trust and can help each other to
achieve our common goals.