I just got back from an African Safari a couple days ago and on the first day, I saw a herd of 12 elephants. One of them – an old man with BIG tusks – was walking ahead, moving towards a nearby pond of water. But before he got there, he stopped, turned around and faced the others.
It taught me a lot about Outperforming and leadership. Three lessons:
1 – Know where you’re going
Leaders begin with the end in mind. In this guy’s case, the goal was simple: get to water. If you weighed 6-7 tons, you’d be thirsty too!
2 – Set the pace
Leaders are out in front. They go first, role modeling the way, knowing that the speed of the leader determines the speed of the pack (or herd).
3 – Take care of others
Leaders demonstrate empathy and understanding. When he waited, he didn’t drag his trunk in despair or impatiently stomp his feet. He kindly waited for the other 11 elephants, letting them get to the water and drink first.
Proof that leadership lessons are everywhere – if you choose to see them :-)
Keep Outperforming!
