"Two heads are better than one." What about four heads?
This research project is indeed an enriching experience. I like how the four of us have distinctly different characters, which allows us to complement one another. Zhiyi is the one that would get started on something, and that allows the other members to subsequently follow-up on the piece of work. I see that as an extremely crucial skill to have in group work. After all, it is one thing to spend days and days to brainstorm, and another thing altogether to materialise whatever thats said. Susanto is our group's silent worker who is always supportive of ideas (unlike the old me that can be very critical of ideas). I really appreciate his timely contributions that puts us back on track during discussions. Lastly, we have Max who is the analyser. Occasionally, the group is at a lost as to what is the next appropriate step to take, and Max would always step in and shed light on various subject matters.
About 4 years ago, my superior in the military told us about the dynamics of group work, and I found it extremely appropriate for this project. He said: "In any team work, there are various roles that are adopted by different individuals, and they are namely: the leader whom leads (obviously), the devil that has to do the dirty job of shooting ideas down and having to push his way such that things get done, and the other members being faithful subscribers to proposed ideas and/or thoughts. Of course, with all that is said, I find that I usually end up being the devil of the group in such situations. Often, I would ask myself why would I even choose to adopt such a role, and potentially end up with a bad reputation. How about you? What role do you usually adopt in such occasions?
