Crashing through obstacles, or crashing out?

“I have been stressed out by the workload from my modules lately. It also doesn't help that some of my groups' morale is low and it is very tiring to have to push the group all the time just to get work done. I am on the verge of crashing out, help”

-Bamboo

Dear Bamboo,

School is tough. Group work is even tougher. The silent pressure of having to keep it all together amidst low group morale and motivation is all too familiar to many people. Often, this pressure even nudges you to simply carry the team, to pick everything up by yourself and sprint to the finish line. 

However, that should not be the case. After all, it is group work. You should not be the sole motivator, coordinator and executor of the project. Take a moment to pause and gather your thoughts about the project. What would you like to see from your group mates? What are the goals of the project that the group is not achieving? Communicate your thoughts with your group mates. By letting them know what you are going through, you may be able to shift the dynamic and mindset of the group and spur everyone on. 

That said, know that it is alright to set boundaries and delegate tasks. If tasks and roles were not previously assigned properly, make sure that the group sets them, as well as with deadlines. Having a clear delegation of work and ensuring each group member is responsible for the completion of the project is the first step. Additionally, know that it is not your duty to resolve every situation or problem that may arise during the project. Placing the burden of resolving all problems during the project is detrimental to your mental wellbeing. Instead, ensure that the whole group is on par with the progress and information, and encourage them to take turns in resolving problems.

Lastly, remember that taking care of your own mental health and emotional well-being is not being selfish. Group work will never be perfect, but with good communication and structure, it can be the meaningful and fruitful experience it was meant to be. You can do it.

With love,

Dialy

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Don’t be the nightmare teammate: Basic Teamwork Courtesy

Have you ever met THAT one person that is incredibly hard to work with in group projects? Someone who is either MIA (missing-in-action), barely contributes or is over controlling. Working in a team hasn’t always been easy, but being a good teammate can make a difference. Here are some tips to be a good teammate.

1. KNOW YOUR ROLE

At the start of the project, have a discussion on what everyone’s strengths and interests are in the project. Assign roles based on what best suits each person. This ensures that responsibilities are clear from the beginning, allowing everyone to stay focused and contribute effectively.

2. COMMUNICATION IS KEY

Respond to texts promptly and update your teammates with your progress. Be present during group meetings to be in line with everyone else. Don’t be afraid to ask your teammates for help when needed. We would all prefer to know about what your progress is and how we can help you instead of being kept in the dark. 

3. STICK TO THE DEADLINE GIVEN 

Start the work you are given early. Working on it last minute can cause stress and also conflicts which may reflect in poorer quality of work. Use calendars or apps like Notion to keep yourself in check. Set clear deadlines in the group so that everyone can go through their part, give feedback and work on the changes before submission.

4. BE OPEN TO FEEDBACKS

Don’t take feedback personally. Group projects are a team effort and everyone wants to do well. When you are unsure on how you did on your part, don’t be afraid to ask for feedback! Additionally when giving feedback to others, don’t just criticise, give constructive feedback that they can work on. 

Group work can be frustrating at times, but being a present and reliable teammate can really make a difference. Put in your 100% in your part and do it well. You don’t want to receive a bad SPA* comment, do you?

*SPA - Self and Peer Assessment