Reflections on 9/11and 9/12: Leadership Unity and Purpose in Teams
Last week, I shared some thoughts on LinkedIn about the lessons we can draw from the events of September 11th, 2001, and the unity that followed on September 12th. Now, over two decades later, those lessons feel just as relevant. Reflecting on that time serves as a powerful reminder for leaders and teams about the importance of coming together with a shared sense of purpose, especially in the face of adversity.
On 9/11, the world changed forever. The shock, fear, and deep sense of loss we all experienced were overwhelming. But on September 12th, something incredible happened—the country united. People set aside differences and worked together with renewed purpose. This spirit of unity and the urgency to live with more appreciation and meaning offer important lessons for how we approach leadership and teams today.
The Spirit of 9/12: A Model for Team Unity
While the tragic events of 9/11 are part of history, particularly for younger generations, the spirit of 9/12—the day after—holds timeless lessons in resilience and togetherness. On that day, communities stood strong, neighbors helped one another, and people across the country realized how interconnected we truly are. This spirit of togetherness is something every team and organization can strive for, particularly when facing challenges and obstacles.
Leadership and Unity: How Can Teams Stay Connected?
In any team setting, whether in sports, business, or other group dynamics, challenges and adversity are inevitable. The key is not only to respond to adversity but to unite before and after it. I asked my team last week: how can we be like the people of 9/12? How can we come together, stay united, and operate with a sense of purpose—even when the pressure isn't on?
Here are three ways to foster this unity:
Foster Open Communication
Encourage team members to ask questions, reflect on challenges, and understand their role in the larger picture. Just as it’s important to learn from past events, it’s equally crucial to move forward with the wisdom gained. In a team, this means creating space for dialogue and reflection, ensuring that each person feels heard and understood.Create a Shared Purpose
Teams, like the people of 9/12, need a unifying goal. It’s that common purpose that binds people together, whether it’s winning a game, completing a project, or overcoming a difficult challenge. Keep that goal front and center, and the team will remain aligned, motivated, and united even when adversity strikes.Build Resilience Beyond Adversity
Adversity can bring teams closer, but the real challenge lies in maintaining that unity long after the crisis has passed. Resilience should be a core value, not just in times of difficulty but as an ongoing part of the team’s culture. When every team member feels valued and responsible for each other’s success, the team remains strong, even in calm waters.
Living with Urgency and Purpose
The post-9/11 days served as a powerful reminder to live with urgency and purpose. For teams, this means making every meeting, practice, or project count. When individuals operate with a sense of purpose, they contribute not just to their personal success but to the growth and strength of the entire team.
Challenge your team to ask themselves: Are they just showing up to play, or are they working with a greater sense of purpose? Just like on 9/12, are they seizing each opportunity with the mindset that every moment matters?
The Lasting Lessons of 9/12
The lesson from 9/12 is clear: unity, purpose, and living with urgency are essential not just in times of crisis but in our everyday lives. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to remind our teams that these qualities shouldn’t be reserved for challenging moments—they should be the guiding principles that shape how we work together every day.
As we reflect on the past, let’s challenge ourselves and our teams to embrace these values and apply them to every situation they face, so we can stay united, purposeful, and resilient long after the adversity has passed.
We are less than 50 days away from our season opener. My focus is on building a team that not only faces challenges head-on but stays united through every high and low. Every day of preparation matters, and our shared purpose drives us toward success. As we continue to work with urgency and purpose, I’m hopeful that this team will show the strength, resilience, and unity that will make for a special season.
