Get More With More
I talk a lot about “relational synergism” – people working together for greater purposes realized only through concerted efforts.
This applies to small groups, ministry teams, or congregations. On a broader scale this applies to coalitions that tackle area-wide ministry campaigns and missions.
My hopes are that more and more people within the Body of Christ will venture beyond “themselves” and into cooperative working relationships with others; becoming powerful instruments for ministry in the Lord’s hands.
Relational synergism helps people “connect", build relationships, and make a difference…together. In a relational synergistic environment, people are changed and challenged. This sets the stage for life-giving transformation that impacts people and their community.
The powerful impact of relational synergism is a rare occurrence. Only two out of ten teams (groups) of people will experience relational synergism. Why? Because getting people to work together is hard work. Most people tend to be self-focused rather than others-focused. A “what’s in it for me” attitude has legitimacy; but if not properly balanced, it can sabotage synergy.
Synergy means “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” In relational synergism people must be “willing” to harness the power of their independent nature and channel its energy into an organic, progressive process of interdependence. Common purposes and goals are much greater than individual accomplishments.
This doesn’t mean that we lose our individual identity or our personal hopes and dreams. It simply means that I will get what I want; and probably more, if I am willing to help others get what they want as well. This becomes a "win-win" situation for us all. And if we can brave the oftentimes stormy process of the synergistic environment, we will venture into unimaginable results in our cooperative efforts.
Relational synergism is all about people and good relationships. For those who wish to experience the power and potential of a synergistic environment, I encourage you to get ready for a “paradigm shift” in your life. You may discover that relational synergism is something that you have only caught a glimpse of, but never experienced.
I strongly encourage you to venture out into deeper waters of personal experience and invite others to join you. Once experienced, relational synergism becomes very compelling and beseeches return visits time and time again.
I would also like to recommend three books that will educate you on the value of a synergistic environment:
The Performance Factor: Unlocking the Secrets of Teamwork
By Pat MacMillan
The Wisdom of Teams: Creating the High-Performance Organization
by Jon R. Katzenback and Douglas K. Smith
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
by Stephen R. Covey
