Collaboration: A Few Beliefs and an Idea
A belief — Community is still very much a part of our lives.
It is true that we may not live in idyllic towns where the front door remains unlocked and we know the names of every one of our neighbours, but communities still exist. They are made of old friends and new ones, of neighbours and colleagues, of the people who occupy our spare rooms, who drive us to the airport, who we call for restaurant recommendations or when we need help moving house.
A belief — We are happier when we are useful.
Whatever buzz we may gain from likes, +1s, and new followers is short-lived and ultimately doesn’t add value to our lives. Within each of us is the desire to actually make a difference, to be a source of value and support to those around us. We feel good when we’ve been able to make even the smallest difference in somebody else’s life, from giving them advice about the hidden places of our favourite city, to watering their plants when they go there. Those are the interactions that really mean something.
A belief — Collaboration is a two way street.
There is nothing wrong with wanting our efforts to be both recognised and appreciated. We don’t assist our friends solely so they may do likewise, but it is only natural for us to expect them to. Being there for one another, in matters both significant and trivial, is what friendship and communities are all about.
A belief — Trust is the original currency
We not only need to trust people to allow them in our homes, or to let them borrow that favourite book, which may hold a personal value far greater than its price tag, but we need to trust that they too will help us when we need it, after all collaboration is a two way street!
The Idea — Tribes
Imagine the time, skills and resources that you have, add on those that your friends have, and then add on those that their friends have also… Like ripples in an ocean their reach expands and yet the links of trust are constant. Imagine sharing all of that. Imagine all the people you would get to know in the process. Imagine all the good that it could give you.
That is the idea, and that is the tribe. How much of a difference could it make to all of your lives? We’re hoping that you find out.
Originally published at blog.taz.com on March 30, 2015.
