"To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others." ~ Tony Robbins

Learning Activity #1: Based on this checklist for keeping a project on track. Which do you find a challenge? Also, determine a possible solution for dealing with this challenge. Please use academic course material/resources to support possible solutions.

• Keep the project team focused on the mission.
• Identify managers who make final decisions related to the project.
• Make sure all plans are approved before work begins.
• Make sure all changes to the plan are approved before work begins.
• Manage the expectations of everyone involved with the project.
• Avoid in-fighting within management groups.
• Avoid surprising management and the project team.
• Keep the project proceeding as planned.
• Don't overemphasize any aspect of the project.
• Don't allow a personality conflict to overshadow a valuable opinion.
• Don't allow favoritism to influence objectivity.
• Don't make judgments based upon preconceived notions.

Learning Activity #2: In the article, "The Great Conundrum-- You vs. the Team" the author notes, "Today's teams are less a metaphor and more a reality. These days, team members are likely to work together many hours a day, jointly hammering out the final product rather than slotting together individually made components." Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not. Please ensure you support your answer.