The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable

by Patrick Lencioni

Kathryn explained, “It’s as simple as this. When people don’t unload their opinions and feel like they’ve been listened to, they won’t really get on board.” “They do if you make them,” countered Nick. “I’m guessing your husband doesn’t let his players vote on whether they want to run wind-sprints.” Kathryn welcomed this kind of challenge. “No, he doesn’t. But he’d let them make a case why they think they shouldn’t. And if he disagreed with them, which in that situation I’m sure he would, he’d tell them why and then send them off running.” “So this isn’t a consensus thing.” Jan’s statement was really a question. “Heavens no,” insisted Kathryn, sounding like a school teacher again. “Consensus is horrible. I mean, if everyone really agrees on something and consensus comes about quickly and naturally, well that’s terrific. But that isn’t how it usually works, and so consensus becomes an attempt to please everyone.” “Which usually turns into displeasing everyone equally.” Jeff made his remark with a look of pain on his face, as though he were reliving a bad memory. “Exactly. The point here is that most reasonable people don’t have to get their way in a discussion. They just need to be heard, and to know that their input was considered and responded to.”