If it doesn't hurt, probably you are NOT collaborating

Many processes that ICAO promotes are based on collaboration. Plenty of aviation technical literature is written around the need and benefits of collaboration. It sounds like a nice word, in which different stakeholders and professionals with different interests get together to produce changes for the benefit of all involved.

The word probably implies a nice working relationship, conflict free environment. If it happens that you are seating in such an environment, probably you or your counterparts are not really collaborating.

I have used the title of this article on some opening remarks of events in which the component of collaboration is a key factor for achievement the desire results. I could see the audience wondering about this possible contradiction.

The book “Radical Collaboration" by Jim Tamm and Ron Luyet provides a wealth of insights into effective collaboration. The phrase "if it doesn't hurt, probably you are NOT collaborating" suggests that effective collaboration involves effort, challenge, and sometimes discomfort. Here some food for thoughts.

 1. Emotional Intelligence: The book emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in collaboration. Developing emotional intelligence can be challenging and uncomfortable as it involves self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy. This growth can be difficult but is essential for true collaboration.

2. Building Trust: Trust is a cornerstone of effective collaboration. Building trust can be uncomfortable, especially if there have been past conflicts or mistrust. It requires openness, vulnerability, and time, which can be challenging but ultimately leads to stronger, more effective teamwork.

3. Conflict Management: The authors discuss the importance of managing conflict constructively. Engaging in conflict can be uncomfortable, but addressing and resolving conflicts is necessary for collaboration. Avoiding conflict might seem easier, but it prevents genuine collaboration and problem-solving.

4. Commitment to Learning: Collaboration requires a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. This can be uncomfortable as it involves acknowledging mistakes, learning from them, and making changes. This ongoing process can be difficult but is essential for successful collaboration.

5. Mutual Respect and Support: Effective collaboration involves respecting and supporting each other's contributions, even when it is challenging. This requires effort and can be uncomfortable, especially when there are differing opinions or approaches.

 "Radical Collaboration" supports the idea that if collaboration feels easy and without any challenges, it might not be true collaboration. True collaboration involves effort, emotional investment, and sometimes discomfort, but these challenges lead to stronger, more effective partnerships.

"Large numbers of strangers can cooperate successfully by believing in common myths." — Yuval Noah Harari, Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

In aviation, these "common myths" are the shared standards, regulations, and goals that everyone in the industry adheres to. They form the foundation for trust and cooperation, allowing diverse teams to work together seamlessly. Whether it’s the belief in the importance of safety protocols, the adherence to international regulations, or the commitment to innovation, these shared beliefs unite us and drive the industry forward.

Also have a look at Jim Tamm's TED Talk titled "Cultivating Collaboration: Don't Be So Defensive!" on YouTube. This talk delves into the concept of red and green zone chickens as a metaphor for different types of collaborative behaviors. He explains how green zone chickens, which are supportive and cooperative, significantly outperform the more aggressive red zone chickens, which tend to be competitive and defensive.

Here is the link to the TED Talk: Cultivating Collaboration: Don't Be So Defensive! (YouTube) (The Singju Post).

This talk is a valuable resource for understanding the impact of defensiveness on collaboration and how fostering a supportive environment can lead to better outcomes.

Next time you are involved on SMS, SSP, RST, A-CDM, RSOO, RASG  etc. process, think twice if anything feels way too confortable.