"チームより自分が面白くなろうとしないでください。チームが常に第一です。"

Putting your team ahead of yourself is the crux of this message. It's a reminder that leadership isn't about putting yourself in the spotlight. Instead, it's about ensuring your team shines. Think of it like this: if you’re part of an orchestra, it’s not your solo that matters, but how the whole symphony sounds together.

Now, let's drop into some historical context. This idea has been around for ages. Remember the story of King Arthur? He’s the legendary figure who led the Knights of the Round Table. King Arthur wasn’t out to be the star—his leadership was all about his knights and the unity of his kingdom. He understood that his strength was in his team. It’s a lesson that has echoed through time, reminding us that the best leaders lift others up rather than standing above them.

Let’s dig into a real-life, tangible example. Picture a basketball team. The coach isn't the one scoring points, right? It’s the players who do that. A good coach knows their success is directly tied to the performance of their team. Phil Jackson, one of the NBA's most successful coaches, didn’t try to outshine Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, or Shaquille O’Neal. Instead, he focused on building a cohesive team, understanding each player's strengths, and creating an environment where they could excel. The result? Multiple championships and a legacy of greatness.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by really listening to your team. Whether you’re at work, in a community project, or even in your family, take the time to understand the people around you. What are their strengths? What motivates them? By focusing on these aspects, you can help them succeed and, in turn, achieve collective goals. Also, acknowledge and celebrate their successes. When someone on your team does well, give them the credit. It’s not about diminishing your role but about highlighting theirs.

Imagine you’re working on a group project for a big presentation. You might be tempted to take charge and steer the whole thing, but resist the urge. Instead, think about what each person can bring to the table. Maybe one person is great at research, another at design, and someone else at public speaking. By focusing on their strengths and coordinating their efforts, the final outcome will be far superior than if you tried to do it all yourself. Plus, the team will feel valued and more invested in the project.

Here’s a story to bring it home. Think about a friend of mine, Sarah, who works in a tech startup. She’s not the CEO, but she’s a team leader. When their company was developing a new app, instead of trying to come up with the flashiest ideas herself, she encouraged her team to brainstorm and contribute. One of her quieter team members, who rarely spoke up, ended up suggesting a feature that became the app’s standout element. Sarah didn’t just take the idea and run with it—she made sure everyone knew where it came from. Her team felt empowered and motivated, and the project was a massive success.

So, next time you’re in a group setting, remember this—don’t try to outshine your team. Help them shine, and you’ll all bask in the glory together. It’s about creating harmony, not a solo performance.