The level no one talks about – How shared values transform team dynamics
Today I want to explore the spiritual level in groups—one of the 7 levels of group intelligence that we all possess but rarely acknowledge in professional settings.
We shy away from spirituality because it gets tangled up with religions and doctrines that divide us. But our spiritual capacity as human beings actually bring us together. I’m talking about connecting to higher purpose, deeper intention, shared meaning that transcends our daily tasks.
When values create unexpected bridges
One exercise I use consistently is called “Something I Value.” I ask people to bring an object from home that represents something they deeply value, then we share these during our opening check-in round.
The transformation is incredible to witness. People lean in, listening intently as colleagues reveal what truly matters to them. The overlaps are stunning, family, pets, cherished memories, loved ones. These authentic communications bring us closer together as humans, despite differences in culture, background, or belief systems.
Start with what matters most
This simple process deepens relationships in teams, which is essential for high performance. When people understand what drives each other at a values level, it creates bridges that help overcome surface-level differences.
The spiritual level isn’t about religion, it’s about recognizing the shared humanity that makes extraordinary teamwork possible.
What values-based conversation has strengthened a team relationship in your experience? 👇