Maybe it comes from the fact that I come from a big, close-knit family. We are independent, yet inter-dependent. We seek one another when we need help & we are always ready to lend a hand. We are fiercely protective of each other. We know we each have our own failings, but we are overly defensive if ever others dare to speak negatively about any one of us.
The same goes with the people I work with. I'm part of a great team of people who have achieved so much more because we work together, laugh together & are comfortable with each other. We are inter-dependent, we each have our own shortcomings, we can be constructively critical of each other, but ultimately, we know that our strength lies in being and working together.
Recently I've had the pleasure of working with another wonderful team of people who is led by Zaharim. They are young & enthusiastic. They have good ideas! Some are serious, some incredibly funny! Some are more committed than others but of course this is expected in any new team. As the team evolves, some team members will leave while others stay & firm up their commitment. This is a natural process of team-building. Ultimately, each member will realize their own strengths; recognize the contribution of others; & learn to rely on one another.
It is then that they become a Team Player.