At the highest levels of performance—whether on the Olympic stage or in the workplace—trust isn’t just important; it’s essential. Olympic teams, like bobsledders barreling down an icy track at 80 miles per hour, know this better than anyone. Without trust, their run could end in disaster. With it, they can achieve the impossible.
The same holds true for teams in every organization. Trust is the foundation of resilience, collaboration, and success. It’s what allows teams to tackle challenges, adapt to change, and push boundaries together. But trust isn’t automatic—it’s built, nurtured, and strengthened over time.
Here are three lessons from Olympic teams about building unshakable trust—lessons you can apply to your life and organization to elevate performance and resilience.
Shared Purpose: Trust Grows When Goals Align
Olympic teams are united by a single, compelling purpose: to perform at their best and win for their country. This shared purpose creates alignment, clarity, and connection.
In your organization, trust starts with a common vision. When everyone understands the mission and their role in achieving it, trust grows naturally. Make your team’s goals clear, communicate often, and ensure every member knows they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
Vulnerability: Trust Requires Openness
Olympic teams know that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s a strength. Admitting mistakes, asking for help, and sharing fears create deeper connections and stronger bonds.
In the workplace, encourage vulnerability by creating a safe environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and challenges. When people can be authentic without fear of judgment, trust becomes the foundation for resilience and growth.
Consistency: Trust Is Built Through Action
Trust isn’t built with words; it’s built with actions. Olympic athletes rely on their teammates to show up, give their best, and follow through every single day.
For organizations, this means fostering accountability and reliability. Set expectations, follow through on commitments, and recognize consistent effort. Trust grows when people know they can count on each other—especially under pressure.
Reaching New Heights
Building unshakable trust takes time, effort, and intention, but the rewards are worth it. Teams with high trust perform better, bounce back faster, and achieve more together.
As you reflect on your team’s dynamics, ask yourself: How can I contribute to building trust? How can I inspire openness, alignment, and accountability in my organization?
Olympic teams trust each other at altitude, navigating high stakes and intense pressure with unshakable belief in one another. Your team can do the same. Together, you can achieve greatness.
Keep On Pushing!