Upon attending a workshop called Authentic leadership, at Alba Guest Farm, I had an epiphany about leadership and what a leader should be like.
First it should be noted that this is a course that teaches leadership through the gift of horses. A well planned theory session is followed by practical activities with the horses. Why horses you ask…
‘Horses are amazingly wise, clever and proud animals. They, by nature, live the values organizations often try, with great difficulty, to install in the hearts and minds of their employees. Horses don't lie and you cannot lie to them. Status does not impress them but they will reward any person that treats them with respect. Leadership is earned through demonstrating authenticity and truthfulness and not through positional power.’ - Yolanda Sing (experienced business women and qualified psychologist).
In one day I learned what most people go their entire lives without knowing. The programme provides a natural opportunity to overcome fear and develop self-confidence. Accomplishing a task involving a horse provides a wonderful metaphor when dealing with other intimidating situations in life.
The Equine Leadership Programme is designed to enhance team functioning, communication effectiveness, to create an understanding for energy management and diversity, improve self-awareness, confidence and assertiveness.
Needless to say I got my feedback from the horse’s mouth.
This reminds me of dealing with fears by meeting the situation head on. The only way you'll be a leader in your life is by being your own leader and not letting tasks like this get you down.
ReplyDeleteSo true - humans think they know best. But often it is the animals that lead the way in terms of leadership. We have much to learn from they way they lead the pack and care for their young.
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