AS A LEADERSHIP CONSULTANT, I often find inspiration in unexpected places. One of the most surprising sources of leadership lessons? Our furry friends. That’s right, owning pets can actually make you a better leader. Now, before you start picturing your dog leading a board meeting or your cat giving a motivational speech, hear me out. When you bring a pet into your home, you’re not just gaining a cute companion; you’re taking on a leadership role. You become responsible for their well-being, growth, and development. Sound familiar? It should, because these are the same responsibilities you have as a leader in your professional life. First and foremost, owning a pet teaches you to love unconditionally. These adorable creatures become part of your family, and you care for them deeply. As a leader, genuinely caring for those you lead is paramount. When your team feels valued and cared for, they’re more likely to be engaged, motivated, and loyal. After all, your pets totally rely on you, and your team relies on you deeply too. But neither pet ownership nor leading is all cuddles and belly rubs. Just like in leadership, you have to provide structure and discipline for your pets. You teach them how to fulfill their roles in the family, whether it’s being a loyal protector or a comforting companion, how to greet guests, or when and where to be. Similarly, as a leader, you guide your team members in their roles, helping them develop their skills and reach their full potential through teaching, training, and mentoring. Of course, this involves setting expectations and boundaries. You wouldn’t let your dog chew on your favorite pair of shoes, just like you wouldn’t allow a team member to consistently miss deadlines. Establishing clear guidelines and consequences is crucial in both pet ownership and leadership. But it’s not all about punishment, so much as overall discipline. Rewarding good behavior is equally important. When you patiently teach your pet a new trick or they exhibit good manners, you praise them and maybe even give them a tasty treat. In the workplace, recognizing and rewarding your team’s achievements is key to keeping them motivated and engaged. Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But my pet doesn’t have opposable thumbs or a college degree!” True, but the principles of leadership remain the same. Whether you’re leading a team of humans or a pack of pups, the core skills are similar. So, the next time you’re scooping kibble into your pet’s bowl, teaching them to stay off the couch, or throwing a frisbee at the park, remember that you’re not just being a pet owner; you’re honing your leadership skills. And who knows, maybe your pet will even teach you a thing or two about delegation. After all, they’re experts at getting you to do things for them too! In all seriousness, owning a pet can be a valuable learning experience for leaders of all ages. It teaches you empathy, responsibility, and the importance of building strong relationships based on trust and respect. So, if you’re a leader who also happens to have a furry friend at home, take a moment to reflect on how your pet has helped you grow as a leader and what successes can translate over to helping the team. And if you don’t have a pet, well, maybe it’s time to consider adopting one. Your leadership skills (and your heart) will thank you. HOW CARING FOR PETS GROOMS YOU FOR LEADERSHIP SUCCESS PAWSITIVELY INFLUENTIAL: Forging LEADERS { b y R y a n C o n n } 76 APRIL 2024 | INTHEVUE.COM
