Margaret Heffernan really brought forth some interesting thoughts and realizations to the table. The analogy to super chickens really had me laughing. I grew up with the philosophy of doing what I could to get ahead, but without the whole pecking others bit.
One great example that I can think of regarding super chickens is simply the software development industry. There are so many contracts for projects in the world where several programmers are ultimately trying to be the best and cut out the people they feel are below them. This can often lead to dismay and an abysmal working place. I suppose if you are a one man show, then it only impacts that one person. However, during my time at NASA as a contracted software developer, I had a couple of different experiences. The first experience was one in which very little social support was provided. It was rare that the person next me to spoke at all. The second experience was one in which nearly everyone talked to me and socially supported me. I greatly valued this second experience more. However, despite both experiences being different, the one culture that remained the same was that the community worked together towards a common goal of supporting space operations and no one was trying to overthrow another.
My value of helping others has often come first. This is probably why my favorite job that I have ever done so far in my career was working as an instructional technologist. I was able to help so many teachers and students with technology. In addition, I was working with a small team of individuals. We strived to get to know one another and despite us not working directly together now, we still hold our relationships in high value. Heffernan made a statement that ultimately said everyone has value and by understanding this and working with these people, you are able to aid in bringing out their best, which can ultimately lead to finding your own best.
Resources
Heffernan, M. (2015, May). Forget the Pecking Order at Work [Video File]. Retrieved from https://www.ted.com/talks/margaret_heffernan_why_it_s_time_to_forget_the_pecking_order_at_work.
Why it's time to forget the pecking order at work (15:47) Published by: TED Talks Added: June 16, 2015 YouTube URL: https://youtu.be/Vyn_xLrtZaY
Key Takeaways From Peer Discussions:
When you are seeking out growth for yourself, be sure not to tear down others in the process.
Collaboration is essential for a healthy workplace.
Sharing resources and knowledge amongst employees is a great way for an organization to reach their common goals.