An appropriate metaphor explaining this concept might involve an airplane, flying from destination A to destination B. Most people believe an airplane flies in a direct line. Not true. Airplanes fly in corridors and, when the pilot gets too close to one side of the corridor, the control tower tells him (or her) to make an adjustment. And should the plane get too close to the other side of the corridor, the control tower tells the pilot, again, to make an adjustment. So the plane flies within the corridor and the control tower gives the pilot “feedback.”

Now, we often don’t give feedback because we don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings. And, of course, you have to be careful. I’m referring here to “feedback” – not being “critical.” There is no feedback when you don’t care. But when you experience someone who is having a personal problem – perhaps a teammate – give him (or her) feedback and let him (or her) know you care. This will also allow him (or her) to open up and release to you, sharing his (or her) problems with you. The result? Team bonding and good team chemistry.