Rich Harris

In the early years of my professional career, I was often conflicted by the commitments my instinctual self would reflexively make: Chair the fundraiser? No problem. Attend a Saturday business event that overlaps with a family commitment? I guess I could stop by. Or set a goal that aligns neatly with what others want for me? Sure, they will be proud. You have probably experienced moments like these, when a faint voice in the back of your head is screaming, “No, don’t do it!” just as your...

Each Memorial Day, I find myself thinking about my grandfather’s service in World War II and the way circumstances beyond his control altered the course of his life. His story reminds me that one of the greatest gifts many of us enjoy is the ability to choose our own path, a freedom made possible by the sacrifices of others.

Exceptional teams do not happen by accident. They are built on a handful of cultural pillars that shape trust, clarity, meaning, and performance. Drawing from a real merger experience and Google’s Project Aristotle research, this piece explores the five pillars of exceptional teams and why psychological safety stands apart as the condition that allows the others to take hold.