Leadership Lessons from our Pets
What lessons can we learn from our pets that we can apply in leadership? We refer to them as human’s “best friend” so surely they have characteristics we admire and can emulate.
My wife and I got a COVID puppy in May of 2020 named Gigi. She’s a Shi-Poo, only 10 pounds and so adorable.
This morning I was having a conversation with my friend and colleague, Denise, about our pets and we could not stop talking about them. This led me to reflect on what we can learn from these creatures that are so dear to our hearts, and here are my thoughts.
Kindness came to my mind right away, they know how to be kind, sweet and gentle. They also demonstrate forgiveness, patience, unconditional love and loyalty… wonderful traits we should all aspire to.
The one I think is most relevant to leadership is authenticity. They are who they are! They don’t pretend, hide, or lie. You know everything about them - their routines, their patterns, their insecurities, their emotions…
The definition of authenticity means you are true to your own personality, values, and spirit, regardless of the pressure that you are under to act otherwise. You are honest with yourself and with others, and you take responsibility for your mistakes. Your values, ideals, and actions align.
If your pet can do it, so can you. Why should you? Because authenticity is what employees value most in their leaders today.
In our complex world, effective leadership requires more than mastery of skills and strategies. The core of outstanding leadership is authenticity. It is the bedrock for solid relationships, effective communication, ethical behavior, and sustainable success.