Teams of Two

On the eve of Valentine’s Day - consider teams of two. They are the smallest team of all and yet are often the primary drivers in just about every aspect of our lives. Why might this be true? 

  • It is easier for two people to communicate well than for a larger number of people.
  • It may be biologically driven…to create and care for children.
  • We each need a partner to fill in our weaknesses…and we need to fill theirs.
  • The logistics of sustaining a team of two are easier than for a larger team.
  • Our culture supports and encourages teams of two.

Maybe it doesn’t matter ‘why’ when it is so easy to observe teams of two every day. Some of them have existed for a very long time, morphing to continue their effectiveness and compatibility over the course of their relationship. It is unusual for larger teams to grow old together…but no so for teams of two.

What are the most important teams of two in your life?

Remember that not all of them are Valentine’s material; it turns out that teams of two are very effective in the business world too. Walt and Roy Disney are an example that is often cited.