Embrace Interdependence 

Virtually lunching with a colleague and dear friend recently, chatting about all things life and work, I was suddenly struck by a trait she and I have in common: hyper-independence. A buzzy word that didn’t enter most of our lexicons until very recently. Not only did she and I share the trait, but I also realized how often hyper-independence hallmarks are seen in our industry. 

Hyper-independent folks exemplify self-sufficiency and resilience, a quintessential “I got this” mindset. In our remote, deadline-driven, ever-evolving industry, this is a prized trait, often labeled: “self-starter”, “exceptional time management”, “self-led”, or a whole host of other descriptives you’ll find in most direct response marketing job listings. Truly, the success of many organizations appears to be somewhat dependent upon being at least a little hyper-independent. Is there such a thing? 

Not hearing the downside, Meredith.  

When can it go overboard though? Hyper-independence can dampen the cooperative spirit essential to innovation, which is the differentiator in speed, creative solutions, and rapid problem-solving. 

A balance between independence and collaboration is key. Recognizing the value of teamwork does not diminish individual accomplishments; rather it amplifies them. Successful team members understand the power of collaboration in driving innovation, problem-solving, and achieving shared goals. That is, growing from hyper-independence to INTERDEPENDENCE.  

Individuals embodying interdependence recognize the power of collaboration and the synergy that arises when diverse minds converge toward a common goal. Team dynamics rely on open communication, shared responsibilities, and leveraging each team member’s strengths. Hyper-independence can hinder these dynamics, as individuals may hesitate to delegate tasks or seek input from others. This leads to a stifling of the innovation that arises when different perspectives come together. While the ability to take initiative and work autonomously is both commendable and desirable, the needs of today also place a premium on collaboration and adaptability. 

Those who strike that balance between independence and teamwork, becoming interdependent, are poised to navigate the complexities of today’s professional demands, fostering an environment where collective success becomes the true indicator of a thriving organization.