Attributes of Snails
I passed a snail on the sidewalk this week, which means we’re entering the wet weather season. Being a California resident, THAT is reason to celebrate. We rejoice when it rains. Our ground soaks up the moisture. There are puddles to stomp through and mud instead of dust.
Although being called "a snail" often brings with it a negative connotation, I enjoy observing snails. I love the simple utility of their bodies. They have no bones, but use a built-in movement mechanism. They live in a protective shell that they can shrink into or expand outside of. They wiggle their antennae to sense the world around. They magically cling to surfaces. I even love the silvery, slimy trails they leave behind.
When my son was turning 3 or 4 we asked him what he wanted on his birthday cake, and his request was “snails.” They fascinated him, too. So we had a cake decorator create snails out of icing. Not exactly escargot, lol!
So, whether you are attracted to or repelled by snails, I would challenge you to examine your strengths and weaknesses to see if there is a snail-like quality you possess. Is it an admirable thing, or something you wish you could change??
Personally, I would like to think that I am becoming more skilled at tuning in and using my senses to “get a feel” for the world around me, much like the way that snails use their attenae as they glide along.
Builder of Badass Bosses, Podcaster, Employee Engagement Guru, Coach
2 年I love this article Ellen! It really makes me think. Not only does it make me look at snails in a different light, and I actually noticed them, but it makes me consider how I consider the world and my experience in it. Too often I’m just rushing through my day and missing a lot. In my work I sometimes rush through to expedite completion, when I could slow down and learn a little bit more. Part of what I do in my career is that I am a certified StrengthsFinder coach. This reminds me of a couple of StrengthsFinder themes. The one is Deliberative which could be considered snail-like. In contrast is Activator which can be more ant-like (go, go, GO). Activator is among my top 5 strengths. I could profit by being a little more deliberative now and then. Thanks for the reminder!
Passionate about helping people perform at their highest levels.
2 年Agree!! Love this post, Ellen. Thanks for sharing.
Training Manager | Leadership Development | Coaching | Facilitator | ILT, VLT, eLearning Development
2 年#perspective