In The Culture Code, Daniel Coyle describes that, far and away, the most productive, cohesive, and enjoyable groups have a member that is a “good apple.”
“Good apples” maintain stability and safe connection among the members of the group, so that group energy can focus on doing the work instead of (often anxious) relationship management. With small behaviors, they defect negativity and drain danger from the room. By subtly communicating that the group is safely connected, they create the conditions for others to perform.
We have each known these good apples, and they are marvelous to work with.
Being a “good apple” takes a certain amount of emotional intelligence and social skill, but it is also a generous choice.
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