“Friends who support each other conquer the world together.” At Dr. Bamie’s 50th birthday celebrations last weekend, I experienced first-hand the power of teamwork and the magic we can create when friends show up. When we show up and work together as a team for the greater good, we unleash the power of teamwork and can accomplish even more than our original goal.
When one of our former high school classmates suggested that we create a surprise dance presentation for the celebrant, I thought it was a great idea, but would people really want to participate? However, I was amazed at the reception. We, middle-aged women in our late forties and early fifties, were ready to spend our time and energy learning new dance moves. These women chose to forget their self-consciousness and put themselves out there. They risked being ridiculed, all to make a friend’s day. Now, that’s what I call sacrificial love.
Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other (Romans 12:10, NLT).
Even though we didn’t have to do it, and the celebrant was not expecting it, we took delight in honoring our friend on her special day! Many of us had not seen or talked to each other since high school over 30 years ago, yet we were willing to work together for a common goal. Indeed, when friends show up, we can move mountains.
Teamwork in action
We overcame so many obstacles as a team. One of the mountains we moved is the nightmare of missing luggage. One of us traveled from the UK, and her luggage never arrived. As expected, she was devastated. Amazingly, we all rallied around, ruffling through our luggage, looking for clothes, toiletries, shoes, make-up, etc., for her to wear. Fortunately, our hotel was right next to a mall. The next morning, on the event day, a few of us went shopping with her. Luckily, she was able to purchase a beautiful gown with matching shoes, and she looked smashingly gorgeous at the party. Ultimately, no one would have guessed she arrived with zero luggage!
As for our dance, the logistics seemed impossible initially. What music do we dance to? How can we memorize the dance steps? Do we dance in our evening gowns and high heels? How do we practice, especially since we all live in different countries and time zones? How do we keep it a surprise from the celebrant? My peculiar challenge was, “How do I choreograph this dance so it will be simple enough to teach and dance?” These questions seemed like huge insurmountable mountains then, but they all seem trivial now. Everyone chipped in their very best to make the dance a success. Oh, what joy when we finished the dance? The feeling of accomplishment, love, relief, and camaraderie just cannot be put into words. I am so grateful for the opportunity to dance and bond with these extraordinary ladies. Indeed, we formed great memories that will last a lifetime!
Enjoy this video below of how we accomplished this remarkable feat with just one 30-minute practice session.
As usual, this blog post will only be complete by sharing how these experiences benefit our health and well-being.
Health benefits of teamwork
1. People thrive when they come together to work as a team.
2. As you work together and build each other up, you are also forming solid bonds.
3. Working together as a team increases your social and communication skills.
4. We encourage and support one another when working as a team.
5. You learn new things as you share your ideas and thoughts.
6. Being part of a team can help reduce stress, social anxiety, and depression.
7. Being a part of something greater boosts your mood and confidence.
8. Teamwork is an excellent opportunity for networking and making new connections.
9. As part of a team, we make social connections vital for our well-being and increase our happiness and fulfillment.
10. Bonding with others improves our personal growth.
11. Sharing the burden as a team prevents stress and burnout. A lower stress level leads to improved physical health.
12. Socially engaging with others as part of a team keeps our brains active and alert as we age.
Overall, studies show that the mental health benefits of being part of a team include feeling happier and more confident. It also increases your sense of belonging and makes you feel more included, friendly, and valued. Finally, people report that being part of a team means they have a better support network and credit being part of a team with getting through a hard time in their life.
Final thoughts
Undoubtedly, being part of a team and connecting with others is good for your mental health. For more on the health benefits of friendship and social interactions, check out “Who is your Guy?” and “Thank you for being a Friend.”
We shared so much love, laughter, and friendship this past weekend. We left the party rejuvenated, restored, refreshed, and replenished. I know attending the party was costly, the flight, accommodations, attire, etc. But it was time and money well spent. Indeed, when friends show up, we make a great investment in our physical and mental well-being.
Moreover, the nuggets of wisdom we shared cannot be quantified. There were so many tidbits and advice you will never see on paper. This knowledge and wisdom come with maturity and can only be shared from one woman’s mouth to another’s ears.
Our accomplishments and success at Dr. Bamie’s 50th birthday celebrations reiterate that there is power in numbers. Indeed, when friends show up, the power of teamwork is let loose, and we can conquer the world!
Finally, think about it. How are you showing up for your friends? It could be something as simple as picking up the phone and calling your friend or providing encouragement and support to your friend. So, what can you do today to honor your friends above yourself?
Please feel free to share your comments below. Also, feel free to share this article.
Yours in health and fitness,
Doctor Abi
