Syeda Maham Waseem (451418) (MBA 2K23-A)
Reflection on Team Activities
1. Self-Reflection
Role Identification:
During the activities, I naturally gravitated toward the role of a supporter. In the ball-throwing
rounds, I wasn’t overly confident in my abilities, so I focused on encouraging my teammates and
contributing where I could. While I didn’t step into a leadership role, I ensured I communicated
positively and maintained team morale. My role was informal but recognized, as my
encouragement kept the group engaged.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: My ability to adapt quickly and bond with new teammates helped establish a
positive atmosphere. Despite my nervousness, I participated actively and cheered on
others. I was also quick to adjust during the "Human Unknot" game by helping strategize
and focus on the goal.
Weaknesses: My hesitance in taking risks limited my performance, as I chose the 3-box
throw rather than attempting the 7-box option. Reflecting back, this decision showed a
lack of confidence. In the second round, I realized my choice to stay in a comfort zone
with friends impacted our ability to perform well.
2. Team Dynamics
Collaboration and Communication:
In the first round, where the groups were teacher-assigned, our team collaborated efficiently
despite not knowing each other beforehand. The group bonded in a short time because everyone
played their part. However, in the second round, our self-formed group lacked coordination and a
strategy to win. We prioritized comfort over skill, which impacted our results.
Synergy:
The first team performed better because of diversity—some group members were naturally good
at the game. The synergy among unknown teammates surprisingly exceeded my expectations.
Conversely, the second group struggled as we all shared similar weaknesses, and no one stepped
up to lead.
Leadership:
Leadership within the teams was largely absent, as no one took responsibility for strategy or
decision-making. However, during the “Human Unknot” game, I observed how quickly
leadership emerged when we practiced together. I contributed by suggesting we communicate
clearly and remain calm under pressure.
3. Observations of Others
Perceptions of Team Members:
In the first round, I noticed how some teammates—whom I initially didn’t know—stepped up
and scored well, displaying natural skills. Their confidence motivated me to keep participating.
In the second round, my friends and I struggled, which made me realize the importance of team
diversity in skills.
Challenges in Team Dynamics:
Differences in working styles appeared in the "Human Unknot" game. Some teammates
overcommunicated and panicked during the timed session, leading to confusion. However, we
managed to resolve this by slowing down, revisiting our strategy, and trusting the process.
4. Lessons Learned
Personal Takeaways:
I learned that comfort zones limit growth. Choosing to form a team of friends felt safe
but did not help us succeed. I realized that teams benefit more from diversity and
complementary strengths.
I gained confidence in my ability to adapt to new people and perform tasks outside my
comfort zone, even if imperfectly.
Team Insights:
A clear strategy and leadership are essential for success. Practicing the "Human Unknot"
game beforehand helped us identify roles and reduce confusion.
Collaboration and trust are critical; groups perform better when individuals play to their
strengths while supporting each other.
Relevance to Entrepreneurial Teams:
This activity reflects how entrepreneurial teams thrive through diversity, risk-taking, and
adaptability. A team composed of different skills and perspectives performs better than a group
of similar individuals.
5. Action Points
To improve in future team settings:
Teamwork Skills: I will focus on embracing diversity in teams, recognizing that
unfamiliar people can add value and drive success.
Communication and Leadership: I will take initiative to step into leadership roles by
encouraging strategy discussions and fostering collaboration.
Conflict Management: I will remain calm during challenges and suggest solutions rather
than focusing on problems.
6. Before and After the Activity Comparison
Before: I was anxious about working with people I didn’t know and hesitant about
participating in physical activities.
After: I felt more comfortable working with new teammates and realized that trying and
failing can still be enjoyable and insightful.
7. Additional Comments
This activity highlighted how small decisions, like forming teams or choosing distances, can
reflect larger patterns of behavior—staying in comfort zones versus taking risks. I learned the
importance of adaptability, collaboration, and stepping up when the situation demands it. It was a
fun and insightful experience that I will carry forward in future team settings.
