Having a mix of star performers and average performers in a team leads to better performance.
Humility is essential in teams as it fosters self-awareness, appreciation for others' strengths, and openness to learning.
Deep dives
The Value of Humility in Teams
Having an entire team of superstars can be detrimental to team performance. Teams with a mix of star performers and average performers tend to perform better. In the NBA, teams with only three star players have won more games than teams with four or five stars. Star-studded teams often struggle with coordination and infighting. Many star players focus on individual performance, but there are important team-oriented tasks that don't receive as much attention. Humility is essential in teams as it fosters self-awareness, appreciation for others' strengths, and openness to learning.
Shane Battier: The No Stats All-Star
Shane Battier, a basketball player known for his humility, didn't possess the raw physical ability to be a star in the NBA. However, he became a key contributor to championship teams by focusing on tasks that were undervalued or unnoticed in traditional statistics. Shane's presence on the court made his team more efficient in both offense and defense. He embraced roles such as diving for loose balls, taking charges, and being a great teammate. His impact demonstrated that being the best player is not always necessary to add value to a team.
Leadership and Humility: Brad Stevens and the Butler Way
Brad Stevens, a basketball coach known for humility, believes that success can be just as crippling as adversity if one lacks humility. He emphasizes the importance of the Butler Way, a set of principles including humility, passion, unity, servanthood, and thankfulness. The Butler basketball program recruits players who prioritize the team's success over individual achievements. Humility is reinforced within the team structure, with all players considered captains and accountability expected from everyone. Cultivating humility helps the team stay grounded and focused on continuous improvement.
Balancing Humility and Confidence
Balancing humility and confidence is essential. Humble bragging, where one subtly brags while appearing humble, can be off-putting. It is more effective to acknowledge legitimate shortcomings and display confidence in one's ability to learn and grow. Studies suggest that employers appreciate candidates who can recognize their weaknesses while projecting confidence. Humility helps individuals and teams avoid complacency and continue learning and improving.
The Butler Bulldogs have a habit of shocking college basketball fans by beating top teams with far more talent. How do they do it? Adam Grant joins the team to talk about why stars are overrated, role players are underrated, and humility can go hand in hand with confidence. Also featuring “Moneyball” author Michael Lewis and Brad Stevens, coach of the Boston Celtics. This episode is brought to you by JPMorgan Chase & Co, Accenture, Bonobos and Warby Parker.
Find the transcript at: go.ted.com/worklifeallstars
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