The majority of us live and work in environments with multiple other people. In fact, there is probably not one person who can say that they rely entirely on themselves to get through life. The truth is, we all depend on each other to get things done at one level or another.

Now, let’s have a little exercise.

Take some time to let the below statement settle in your mind for a moment:

Now, invert that thought:

I have the power to be present for others.

Yes, as a human being, your cooperation will almost 100% make life easier for those who are living and working around you. Just think about that. Let it settle. Feel that responsibility

YOU have the power to make life easier for those around you and by NOT cooperating with them, you will most definitely be making life more difficult for them.

If you state that you believe in something, if you state that you are a good person, if you state you want to get good grades, or do well in a project, but you are unwilling to cooperate with the people that have the same dreams, or are there supporting you – you are being false to yourself and  to them. You are essentially stunting forward motion, quality, and success.

We have all felt the frustration of making a group decision to get something done and then certain people don’t step up and take up their share of the load. Its discouraging and hurtful. On the other hand, let’s not kid ourselves, none of us are perfect,  we have all been the person who doesn’t pick up their share as well. So what can we do to stop this? How can we make choices towards constructive cooperation?

The definition of cooperation is: the action or process of working together to the same end.

1.  Do you have a clear idea of what that goal is. Have you discussed and agreed with your family, peers, or co-workers and come out with a clear understanding of what you all want to achieve. A lot of the time dysfunction is a result of miscommunication.

2.  You want to ask yourself, “Do I really want to achieve the same goals as these people?” If the answer is ‘no’, you probably need to have a rethink about your place and priorities in life. If the answer is ‘yes’ move on to the next point.

3.  (This could be the most challenging point so brace yourself), identify areas of weakness in yourself. For example – when it is time for YOU to pick up the slack, what is it that makes you want to procrastinate? Is it laziness? Is it a bad attitude towards someone? Do you not feel ready to take on the task? Are you trying to move the work away from the common goal for selfish gain? If you truly want to encourage environment of cooperation, you need to be constantly checking your own heart and integrity.

4.  Finally (and this should be after you’ve addressed you own issues), you need to confront those who are not pulling their weight. Part of being cooperative is knowing when you need to intervene to help your those around you. It’s easy to get mad and blow a fuse at someone, but before you do that – take a closer look. Think of the times when you felt discouraged, or lazy, or out of your own depth – then approach them with suggestions on how they can move towards productivity. Let them know you see what they are not doing – but give them opportunity and space to grow. 

Cooperation is about working together for a common goal, but it is also something that the individual needs to believe in, and encourage. As part of a family, classroom, or team – you have an individual responsibility to promote a cooperative attitude. If you are in a position of authority be the example – communicate well, check yourself, approach those you are concerned about (with grace). If you are  someone who is in a place of instruction, listen – follow the advice of those who are being a GOOD example, do the best that you can in your chores, or studies, or work.