They are able to collaborate creatively, contributing without dominating, innovating without driving. During the World War I and II, the word collaboration took on a sinister twist. It meant cooperating or working with the enemy. Today, collaboration has become an essential part of successful leadership. However, I believe the past meaning has colored how we view ourselves as we try to collaborate effectively with the people around us.
Some people see collaboration as capitulation, as giving up of one's position.
But, that concept is far from successful collaboration. It is a growth process. It is the unique skill to conceive, combine, connect and organize different ideas from diverse sources into innovative solutions or approaches. It takes much more subtlety and skill than mere domination or direction. It's not natural.