Team Work

Ever seen a team who is clicking and gets it? No matter what is thrown at them they are able to keep their poise and each do their part to make their goal and/or destination. Teamwork can be critical to success when adventuring in the wilderness. Teamwork allows you to go further and longer easier.

Being able to rely on someone to assist can make a difference in success. Some of the best off-road teams that come to mind, were the original Land Rover Camel Trophy teams. Crossing Brazil, Australia, or Madagascar; these events took teams from all over the world and put them against nature.

Nature is an equalizer for mankind. Nature doesn’t care where you come from, who’s you are, how you got there; nature will treat each of us with equal disdain. A great team can help overcome and conquer nature. That’s what made the Camel Trophy and its driving teams so much fun to watch. 

So what makes having a team so great in the outdoors? We’ve mentioned a few reasons above. Let’s look at these reasons in more detail.

Teams allow for collaborative work. In a team, you can tackle a task with many instead of a lone person. Clearing a trail, changing a tire, or recovering a vehicle, teams help in making these tasks go smoothly, quickly, and safer.

Teams allow for people to address obstacles with different ideas and creativity. People come from varying backgrounds and life experiences. Diversity provides opportunity for creativity.

Having others around help with making sound decisions. If an unsafe action is about to be undertaken, anyone in the team should be allowed to call stop before the unsafe act is attempted. If you have been others who you did not feel comfortable speaking out, you are likely not in a team. You are in a group.

Teams should have no ego when someone raises concerns. Everyone sees from a different perspective. What they see may be vital.

Teams should be able to round table failures and successes. After any task you should be able to debrief what worked and what did not.

Teams should comprise of varying specialties. People with backgrounds in medical, recovery, technical off-road driving, backpacking, mechanical, bushcraft, etc.. can be useful should the need arise. Having team members with a proficiency in all of these and specializing in one or two makes a very good team. Find something and be the best you can at it. Obtain a good working knowledge in other areas. 

Teams should have clear communication. Whether giving spotting instructions to a fellow driver, medical care, or directions, you have to listen to and give clear communication to each other to be successful.

Trust is paramount. Knowing each person is committed to the success and well being of the team allows For communication to be successful. It’s hard to follow your spotters instructions if you don’t trust them. 

Teams should recognize each other when they succeed. Even in a team each person should have value and be shown appreciation for what they bring. When a good idea is given, make sure praise is given. When a teammate kept something from going wrong, make sure praise is given.

Being part of a team can be a lot of fun too. Some of my most memorable moments in law enforcement were while being part of Tactical Operations. Whether it was part of the entry team or as a sniper pair, the ups and downs were easier as a team.

When I completed 14-ers, the team I had kept each other encouraged to get to the top. Once at the top the celebration was even sweeter when enjoyed with others.

The outdoors is a lot of fun. So is life. I find it more enjoyable with those I have on my team.

Plan, Prep, Explore