09/04/2026
Helping a teammate is usually a sign of good teamwork, but there is a point where helping can begin to work against the person you are trying to support.
Imagine a team member who regularly struggles with the same responsibility. Each time the deadline approaches, someone steps in, fixes the problem, and keeps the project moving. The immediate result looks positive because the work gets done. The longer-term result is different: one person becomes exhausted while the other never develops the capability or accountability the role requires.
Positive influence is not always about making things easier for people. Sometimes it means asking questions, providing guidance, and allowing someone to work through a challenge rather than immediately rescuing them.
Strong teammates support one another, but they also help one another grow.
Before stepping in the next time someone struggles, consider this: Will my help solve today's problem, or help this person handle tomorrow's?
