Stephen Covey lists synergy as habit nr 6 in his work, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Summarized in his words: “Synergy is what happens when one plus one equals ten or a hundred or even a thousand. It’s the profound result when two or more respectful human beings determine to go beyond their preconceived ideas to meet a great challenge.”
I recently had a conversation with a friend who lives halfway around the world and during our call I had a moment of clarity on this concept of personal synergy. I have been working through some interesting personal matters and as the topic came up, decided to lean into the vulnerability and tell her about it. Even though this created some initial discomfort internally, it felt extremely aligned in the moment. The best way I can put it into words – a space was created in which the topic can be discussed and assimilated which then gave me the opportunity to fully comprehend the matter and in so doing move forward with the growth that took place instead of being stuck in a loop of overthinking. I can now take that growth forward to everyone else in my life – benefitting not just myself but those around me as well. It felt like a true 1+1=3 moment!
When you are experiencing challenges, find someone who can hold space for you to fully lean into all the motions that accompany the journey. Be courageous by showing vulnerability – immense growth takes place in such moments.
In a previous post (READ IT HERE) I referred to our internal river of resources and the waterfall (overflow to others) that inevitably flows from a full river. Consider this image and the overlap with synergy – how can this contribute to filling your river? Working with others to achieve greatness. If we can shift our focus towards uplifting and supporting one another in a meaningful way, imagine what can be achieved! Opportunities are presented when we celebrate our differences & diversity and choose to boost each other.
“The essence of synergy is to value differences – to respect them, to build on strengths, to compensate for weaknesses.” – Stephen Covey
We cannot go through life on our own – well you can try, I guess. It will, however, catch up with you one way or another. As much as we would like to believe that we can achieve and do things on our own, we need each other. Start considering everyone around you as a potential synergy partner – whether you are looking to lose weight, go for that next promotion at work, work through emotional distress, or dealing with a personal challenge. Whatever the case may be, focus on how you can support and empower others to become the best version of themselves and how they can support you in becoming the best version of yourself.