"Each component is understood: navigation for your 'internal squad' "

The concept of the "inner team" is a powerful model for understanding and managing our own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This model, introduced by communication psychologist Friedemann Schulz von Thun, has been further explained by psychotherapist Dagmar Kumbier.

At the heart of this model is the idea that each of us has various inner aspects or "voices," each speaking up in a particular situation or about a specific topic. These inner aspects represent different needs and traits with specific tasks.

As a team leader, it's crucial to handle these inner aspects with respect and understanding. Some inner aspects may not get along well with each other, some might be condemned, and others are so quiet that they are not perceived or integrated reasonably.

The role of the team leader, according to Schulz von Thun, is to act as the "head" who listens to all opinions and leads or guides the team internally. The first step in using this inner team approach is to look at all inner aspects as a leader in a loving and understanding way.

Writing down the inner aspects can help in understanding them better. For instance, the "inner child" is a metaphor for feeling and behavioral patterns developed due to childhood experiences. Giving attention to any hurt inner aspects can help them feel seen and understood, which is essential for conflict resolution within the inner team.

Conflict resolution within the inner team can involve giving well-meaning attention to hurt aspects before moving forward. This approach clears the way for good inner teamwork, similar to a perfect parent being caring, supportive, and sometimes limiting.

Ideally, the inner team works constructively together, but conflicts can arise. The challenge is to identify the appropriate inner aspects for a given problem, give them a voice, and bring them together in an "inner council" to work together, as explained by Schulz von Thun.

This model offers a unique perspective on personal growth and leadership. By understanding and managing our inner team, we can make decisions and act with the self serving as the team leader, leading to more effective problem-solving and personal growth.