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At the beginning of 2025, we introduced synergy as the central theme for ADDO this year. I know that the word itself might sound like it belongs on a corporate buzzword bingo card. But let me be clear: synergy isn’t fluff. It’s a game-changing principle. And when it’s intentionally practiced, it has the power to transform how teams think, act, and win.
At its core, synergy is simple yet profound:
The sum can be greater than its parts.
In a true synergistic team, 1 + 1 doesn’t equal 2. It equals 3… or 5… or even 10. That’s not wishful thinking, that’s the result of people bringing their best and building something better together.
So what makes this kind of next-level collaboration possible?
As I’ve mentioned before, there are four foundational elements that unlock true synergy:
Humility. Communication. Trust. Alignment.
At our recent summer retreat, we had the privilege of hearing from four incredible leaders on our team: Andrew Corn, Caitlin Lewis, Lindsay Corris, and Trevor Woodward. Each of these individuals shared powerful insights around these pillars. Here are just a few takeaways that resonated deeply with me:
Humility: The Foundation of Trust
Humility is where synergy begins. Without it, trust has no soil to grow in.
As Andrew pointed out, when you're chasing a goal big enough, you quickly realize you can’t do it alone. And that realization is freeing. It silences ego, invites collaboration, and gives everyone permission to listen deeply, learn constantly, and lift others up.
In a humble team, credit takes a backseat—and contribution takes the wheel.
Communication: Clarity That Cuts Through Chaos
Communication isn’t just about saying more, it’s about saying what matters, and hearing what’s said.
Trevor reminded us that open, honest communication is the oxygen that keeps synergy alive. It’s about creating space for dialogue, not monologue. When clarity replaces confusion, we gain speed. When in doubt, context matters… so pick up the phone!
Trust: The Invisible Accelerator
Trust can’t be faked, forced, or fast-tracked. It’s earned in the trenches, over time.
Trust allows us to move faster, take risks, and cover each other’s blind spots. When trust is strong, friction fades and momentum builds.
Trust isn’t the extra, it's the edge.
Alignment: Power in the Same Direction
Even the most talented team stalls out if they’re rowing in opposite directions.
Lindsay and Caitlin both drove home the importance of shared goals, values, and priorities. When a team is aligned, there’s no wasted energy. Every action amplifies the next.
Alignment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a daily decision.
Something powerful happens when humility grounds us, communication connects us, trust binds us, and alignment drives us.
As we enter the final stretch of 2025, one thing is clear:Synergy isn’t just a theme. It’s a strategy. It’s a mindset. It’s a better way to work.
