Why Ignoring Results is the Fastest Way to Fail as a Team
Let me tell you a story.
A number of years ago, I was part of a team obsessed with individual success.
We had a star performer who always hit their targets, but the rest of the team struggled. Meetings were filled with updates on personal achievements, but no one talked about the team’s overall progress.
Then, one day, it hit me.
We were failing because we ignored the results that mattered most — the collective results.
Here’s why ignoring results is the fastest way to fail as a team — and how to fix it.
The Problem with Ignoring Results.
When you ignore results, you’re prioritizing individual success over team success.
Here’s what happens:
- Team goals are forgotten: Everyone focuses on their KPIs, and the bigger picture gets lost.
- Morale plummets: Team members feel undervalued and disengaged.
- Progress stalls: The team fails to achieve its goals without a shared focus.
The truth is that results matter. They’re the ultimate measure of a team’s success.
How to Focus on Collective Results
- Set Clear Team Goals: Start by defining what success looks like for the team. Ensure everyone knows the team’s goals and how their work contributes to them.
2. Celebrate Team Wins: When the team achieves a milestone, celebrate it. Recognition reinforces the importance of collective results.
3. Hold Each Other Accountable: Encourage team members to hold each other accountable. If someone’s actions hurt the team’s results, address it respectfully.
4. Lead by Example: As a leader, prioritize the team’s results over your success. Show your team that collective results matter.
A Personal Example
I once worked with a team struggling to meet our quarterly targets. We had a few high performers, but the rest of the team was lagging. So, I decided to shake things up. I called a team meeting and asked everyone to share how their work contributed to the team’s goals.
At first, there was silence. But slowly, people started to speak up. By the end of the meeting, we had a clear plan of action — and a newfound focus on collective results.
That’s the power of prioritizing results.
The Bottom Line
Ignoring results doesn’t protect your team. It paralyzes it.
So, stop focusing on individual success. Set clear team goals, celebrate wins, and hold each other accountable.
Because results are what matter most.
P.S. If this resonated with you, share it with someone who needs a reminder to focus on collective results. And if you’ve got a story about how prioritizing results transformed your team, drop it in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to lead with purpose.
