There are those who thrive in a team – they compartmentalise their work, summon synergy through wacky team building exercises, develop rapport with the team, bask in collective glory when the work is done and at the end of the day go out for a celebratory meal, usually at Star Kabab. Then there's the guy who freezes up at the sight of other people, is visually repulsed by the unnecessary small talk and hours of team meetings that get you nowhere, and then spout a thesis on individualism on social media. Needless to say, such people do not have a very pleasant life in the office – especially at a time when even the most mundane work has a group which is part of a larger team which is overseen by a committee which answers to the board.

If you are one of those who prefer and probably excel working alone, then the workplace will be tough for you. You have probably managed to get through university on your solo efforts. Now you need to learn working in a team – and this is for your own good, otherwise one of two things might happen. The bad scenario is that sensing your need to do things your way, a big share of the work will be dumped on you. The bad-er scenario is that your co-workers sensing your snarky, sarcastic attitude will mess up your chances of ever progressing, no matter how awesome your work is.

You will need to tone down your ego, even if only on the surface. Sure, it is clear to you that your method of cracking the egg is far more efficient and will save the company millions, but if your boss insists on another way, you will have to defer. Be polite in your recommendations. If disregarded, carry on. Sometimes, you just need to go with the flow.

You will also need to remember, even if it means writing it down on your hand, your team members are not all incompetent. Learn to interact. If social pleasantries are not your thing, keep it professional. But when it comes down to the work, keep them in the loop. Instead of pitching your ideas as if they are holy, ask for their opinion. Listen to what they have to say – maybe their input will actually improve on yours.

Some social research shows that even when people are not competing, being around a team who are doing similar work, makes them excel. Call it our instinct to "show em who the alpha dog is", even minus the interaction, teams actually help.

Of course you cannot change your attitude towards group work overnight. If it's social interaction you fear, be specific when dividing up the work – focus on your part and let the others do theirs. Ultimately, if any form of criticism or input from your peers gets to you, then you will be the one to lose out.

In short, learn to accept feedback and evaluate it. If you have suggestions for how others might better do their work, being cordial actually helps. People are more likely to listen to you if you don't come off as condescending and high and mighty. If this is what works to get your point across, then it's better that you learn to accept that you will have to work as part of a bigger team rather than storming out spouting diluted Nietzsche.