Teamwork and The Joy Train
Were you as fascinated as I was by the NASA Artemis II space mission in April? The world was captivated by this historic moon mission and the thousands of photos from space. They were incredible and moving.
Beyond the photos, I was inspired and intrigued by the courage it takes to be part of such an amazing project. I got caught up in what was happening every day when the four brave astronauts circled the moon. Four diverse individuals spending time in a cramped space—incredible. But most inspiring was what they shared when they returned to earth—a lesson for all.
These highly trained people from vastly different backgrounds and talents told amazing stories about how it felt to be part of the team that accomplished these results. Yes, they were in a small space for 10 days of their mission, but their time together took years of learning, practice, discipline, and cooperation.
During the years they spent in preparation for their space experience and when they returned to planet earth, it was obvious that they weren’t just four individuals doing something special—they were a team.
When they were interviewed upon their return to earth, they described themselves as a group of people who “were in it no matter what; people who are stronger together every minute of the day.” A team is comprised of individuals who have the same purpose. As one astronaut put it, an individual “who is willing to sacrifice silently for each other, who gives grace and who holds others accountable.”
When they were sharing about their time in space, it was interesting that while much of the work they were doing while on their journey in space was scientific experimentation, what they also shared with the rest of us was about how their work had “bonded them forever.”
They entertained the world with stories of what it was like to live together in such a small space. One of them talked about being closer than siblings, which contributed to their bonding experience.
Here is something to think about from one of the Artemis II team members: “Teamwork is everything. We are nothing without each other.”
So where does joy fit into this discussion? The astronauts talked about being “on the joy train.” One was quick to share that they weren’t always experiencing joy, but when they were able, they tried to celebrate everyday moments and appreciate where they were and what was happening around them.
For those of us who aren’t circling the moon in a space capsule, but who are living ordinary lives and working at ordinary jobs on earth, how can we get on the “joy train?”
Recognize and reward successes publicly whenever possible. Sharing successes brings joy and the giver frequently gets more pleasure than the recipient.
Celebrate personal and professional achievements such as when someone welcomes a new baby or completes an advanced degree.
Build fun into your organization’s culture. Start staff meetings with fun ice breakers to encourage people to get to know each other.
Lighten up from time to time. Make it possible for your staff to laugh together whenever possible. Encourage leadership to participate in fun activities to bring people together in more informal settings.
Listen and learn from each other. Find joy in everyday moments and share it with others. Positive experiences are contagious.
Learn from the amazing crew of Artemis II to value what each person contributes to the team, work to find joy whenever and wherever you can and get on the “Joy Train.”