Our next few Moment Of Clarity columns will continue with the theme of sharing “Lessons from Lasso”. These are leadership and team examples from the Emmy winning Apple TV+ series, Ted Lasso, that resonated with me.

The second lesson: having a tribe or support group is important.

Early on, Ted creates a support group known as Diamond Dogs. This group of characters forms a close-knit support team for each other. They come together often over the course of the series, with each bringing their unique strengths to the group.

The Diamond Dogs’ formation is driven by Ted's realisation that he needs help in facing the challenges of coaching a struggling soccer team, navigating a new culture and managing long-distance relationships with his wife and son.

He is someone who knows the importance of surrounding himself with people who offer different perspectives and expertise. Each member of the Diamond Dogs contributes in their own way to support Ted and each other.

They share the values of support, collaboration and growth. They effectively use their collective strengths to unite and optimise the complicated arenas of both team management and personal growth.

The Diamond Dogs is a great example of why support groups are a key asset within any organisation. A support group at work creates a sense of camaraderie and unity among team members.

These groups aim to create a supportive and collaborative environment where individuals can share experiences, exchange advice and offer emotional support to one another. When employees feel supported by their colleagues, they can face challenges together, thus boosting morale and motivation. Remember how the Diamond Dogs always had each other's backs? It's the same idea.

Following are several attributes that enable the positive dynamic of the Diamond Dogs and which may offer insight into how to consider developing your own internal “work” support group.

The Diamond Dogs showcase a wide range of skills and expertise. Coach Beard brings strategic thinking and attention to detail. Leslie offers sports psychology insights. Higgins contributes organisational and networking prowess and Nate evolves from a shy kit man to a confident strategist. This diversity allows them to collectively support each other’s various challenges effectively.

The Diamond Dogs complement each other's strengths and weaknesses. As such, a support team should also bring together individuals with different skill sets and perspectives.

A support group relies on open communication and empathy. This allows individuals to share their concerns, stress, or ideas without fear of judgement. It creates a safe space where team members can provide advice, guidance, or simply lend a listening ear. The Diamond Dogs exemplify this by being there for one another and offering encouragement.

Having a support group fosters personal and professional growth. By sharing experiences and knowledge, group members can learn from each other, gain new perspectives and develop their skills.

Just as the Diamond Dogs helped Ted navigate his multiple challenges, support group members provide valuable insights and guidance to each other.

Support groups serve as a sounding board for each member, offering different perspectives and insights, often around critical decisions.

Support groups may improve members’ overall wellbeing and mental health. These groups help to create a sense of belonging, provide emotional support and assist in reducing feelings of stress. Members often serve as confidantes for each other, helping to navigate personal and professional challenges.

A support team can enhance personal wellbeing by offering a safe space to acknowledge and discuss concerns. Support teams may be encouraged by the culture of an organisation – or form organically as individuals engage with each other in different ways.

Ted Lasso’s Diamond Dogs serve as an exemplary model of why support teams are essential in our workplaces. Through their diverse skill sets, complementary roles, emotional support, adaptability and unity, the group demonstrates how a well-structured support team can lead to enhanced decision-making, employee wellbeing and overall success.

Just as the Diamond Dogs succeed in elevating AFC Richmond to new heights, a strong support team will also contribute to the success of individuals, their teams and organisations.

• For more information, please reach out to gayle@clarity.bm