IN the world of business and organizations, success often hinges on the strength and cohesion of the team driving its mission forward. A group of individuals working in unison, with a shared vision and purpose, can achieve remarkable feats.
The Bible, a timeless source of wisdom, provides profound insights into the importance of unity and collaboration. Let me explore the significance of a strong and cohesive team using DCCCO as an example, drawing inspiration from relevant biblical verses.
Synergy: Achieving more together
The Bible teaches us that unity brings blessings and empowers us to accomplish great things. Ecclesiastes 4:9 states, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.”
When individuals come together, their combined skills, knowledge, and efforts amplify their productivity and effectiveness. A strong team fosters synergy, where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Through collaboration, diverse perspectives, and complementary abilities, a team can overcome challenges and achieve remarkable results.
An example was the day-long Team Building Activity we had last July 2, 2023, held at Camp Bucad, Bgy. Cambucad, Valencia, Negros Oriental which was very successful. The activity was aimed to create a strong team that works cohesively towards a common goal. This was actively participated in by all members of the Board of Directors, all Department Managers, all Branch Managers, Human Resource Manager, Credit Manager, and Facilities Manager of DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative. This was well facilitated by Dr. Glenn Glarino.
Being a growing large billionaire cooperative in the Philippines, we need such kind of training in order not to lose sight of our vision, mission, and core values.
Encouragement and support
In any organization, individuals face trials, setbacks, and moments of doubt. However, a cohesive team can provide the necessary encouragement and support to navigate these difficulties.
In Romans 12:10, it states, “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” A team that embraces the principles of love, respect, and honor strengthens the bonds among its members.
When team members uplift and support one another, they foster an environment where individuals feel safe to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow both personally and professionally.
In 2019, DCCCO has made us proud by winning the Most Outstanding Primary Cooperative for large billionaire category award in both the Regional and National Levels in recognition of its exemplary performance in bringing responsive services to its members and the community, and as a model of cooperative best practices and good governance. DCCCO also received the Gawad Parangal Special Citation Award as the country’s Best in Gender and Development Mainstreaming, an award given to cooperatives that recognize the importance of equity and equality in both men and women and fairness in all its transactions to members as well as the community.
Collaboration and shared wisdom
Proverbs 27:17 states, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” This verse encapsulates the power of collaboration and shared wisdom within a team. Each member brings their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table. Through open dialogue, active listening, and constructive feedback, team members refine their ideas and find innovative solutions to complex problems. The collective intelligence of a strong team allows for better decision-making, increased creativity, and the ability to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances.
Resilience in the face of challenges
In life, as well as in organizational settings, challenges and obstacles are inevitable. However, a cohesive team has the ability to weather storms and emerge stronger. Ecclesiastes 4:12 states, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” When faced with adversity, a united team stands as a formidable force. The strength derived from shared values, common goals, and mutual support helps the team persevere through difficult times, find solutions, and come out stronger on the other side.
In 2016, the cooperative became the Most Outstanding Community Enterprises on Poverty Reduction, 2013 Most Outstanding Cooperative in the Philippines (large category), 2014 Top 10 Billionaire Cooperative, 2012 Best in Community Involvement and Development, and 2nd placer as Most Outstanding Cooperative (large category), the Central Visayas region’s Outstanding Cooperative (large category) also in 2012 and 2017, and the 2019 CDA Regional Gawad Parangal Award as the lone Most Outstanding Cooperative (large category – billionaire) in Region 7 for exemplifying best practices in good cooperative governance and for excellent performance in financial inclusion services, providing effective access and a wide range of financial products and services to its members and the community.
A strong and cohesive team is a priceless asset for any organization. By embracing the principles of unity, collaboration, and mutual support, teams can achieve remarkable outcomes. The wisdom found in the Bible provides profound insights into the significance of teamwork. As we reflect on biblical teachings, let us strive to foster an environment where individuals come together, recognize each other’s strengths, and work towards a shared purpose. Remember, “two are better than one,” and when we build strong and cohesive teams, we unlock the potential for greatness.
I was profoundly moved by the act of washing the feet of individuals to whom we felt gratitude, appreciation, respect, and a desire to apologize for any mistakes we may have made that caused them pain and sadness. If we had more time, I would have gladly washed the feet of every participant as a gesture of profound gratitude and acknowledgment for their invaluable contributions to the growth of DCCCO during our team-building activity.
The transformative power of DCCCO through its life-changing projects, products, and services continues today and I know that such spirit will continue to do so in the years to come.
