In Six Sigma implementation, awareness of common pitfalls is crucial for ensuring the success of the program. These pitfalls, if not addressed, can lead to suboptimal outcomes, wasted resources, and diminished team morale. 

Key Pitfalls in Six Sigma Implementation: 

1. Lack of Leadership Commitment: Successful Six Sigma implementation requires strong commitment and active involvement from leadership. Without this, the initiative may lack direction, resources, and the necessary organizational influence. 

2. Insufficient Training: Six Sigma is a methodology that relies heavily on statistical tools and process improvement techniques. Insufficient training can lead to improper application of these tools, leading to incorrect conclusions and ineffective solutions. 

3. Poor Project Selection: Choosing the wrong projects, or projects that are too ambitious or too trivial, can derail the program. Projects should align with business goals and have clearly defined, measurable outcomes. 

4. Resistance to Change: Resistance from employees, often due to a lack of understanding of the benefits of Six Sigma, can hinder progress. Effective communication and involving team members in the process can mitigate this resistance. 

5. Overemphasis on Tools and Techniques: While tools and techniques are essential in Six Sigma, overemphasizing them at the expense of understanding the underlying processes and business context can be counterproductive. 

6. Neglecting the 'Soft' Aspects: Six Sigma isn't just about process improvement; it's also about people. Neglecting the human element – such as team dynamics, motivation, and cultural aspects – can impede the success of Six Sigma projects. 

7. Inadequate Data Analysis: Six Sigma decisions should be data-driven. Insufficient or incorrect data analysis can lead to misguided efforts and suboptimal results. 

8. Failure to Institutionalize Changes: Not integrating the improvements into the standard operating procedures can result in a relapse into old habits and processes. 

Preventing These Pitfalls: 

• Engagement and Leadership: Ensure active leadership involvement and continuous engagement at all levels of the organization. 

• Comprehensive Training: Provide thorough training to all involved personnel in Six Sigma methodologies and tools. 

• Strategic Project Selection: Carefully select projects that are aligned with business objectives and capable of showing measurable improvements. 

• Change Management: Implement effective change management strategies, including clear communication and addressing employee concerns. 

• Balance Between Tools and Context: Maintain a balance between the technical aspects of Six Sigma and the business context in which they are applied. 

• Focus on People: Pay attention to team dynamics, employee involvement, and cultural change as part of the implementation process. 

• Data-Driven Approach: Ensure the availability of accurate data and apply rigorous data analysis methods to guide decision-making. 

• Standardize Improvements: Integrate successful changes into regular business practices to sustain the improvements made. 
  

In conclusion, avoiding these common pitfalls in Six Sigma implementation requires a balanced approach that combines technical proficiency with strong leadership, strategic focus, effective change management, and an emphasis on the human aspect of process improvement.