Navigating Leadership Waters: Which boat is the right choice today?

In leadership trainings we see often the analogy of journeys – sailing from one island to the next on our quest to enchanted land – which of course, promises the holy grail in exchange for hard labor, dedication and loyalty to the mother-ship.

In the vast sea of business challenges and opportunities, leadership is still the compass that guides organizations through uncharted waters. The question is, which skills are today the most relevant one’s?

You would think, much like the skilled captain of a ship, effective leaders understand the importance of collaboration, holding space for diverse perspectives, and steering towards a destination that aligns not just with financial success, but also a positive impact for society and a sustainable approach for our planet.

But recently I really started to question which boats are our captains most drawn too in today’s world and if these boats really ensure to take us towards the future promised.

From Tanker or Cruise-ship to Speedboat, Fisher Boat or Ark:

As we often feel that our large corporations move like tankers or are occupied like cruise ships, I wanted to explore the metaphor of three different types of ships - the speedboat, the fisher boat, and the ark - as symbols of a more future-oriented vessel.

1. The Speedboat: Represents fun, agility and innovation. Leaders also navigate the fast-paced business world, adapting quickly to changes. Encourages a culture of experimentation and risk-taking. Drives for quick wins – especially the stock & market value.

As many of the above is great and maybe even needed, sometimes during the speed of life we might miss out to reflect and break old patterns as we rely on quick decisions often made on familiar experiences. Fun yes, but impact … not sure.

2.???? The Fisher Boat: Signifies collaboration and shared success. Leaders foster also a sense of community and teamwork. The Fisher boat represents a customer-centric approach and experience and recognizes the inter-connectedness of team members and their contributions.

As our context changes constantly and we know about our VUCA world (article link) with plenty of uncertainty, we see more and more the rise of skills such as reflective inquiry, retrospective, personal inner leadership and of course EQ (emotional intelligence).

Could these skills be practiced on a fisher boat which brings together a great team with a common goal of catching the most fish, but does it also builds the bridge to other ecosystems and communities? As competitions lead to survival on a fisher boat, the risk to underestimate our global inter-connectivity might be high.

1. The Ark: Symbolizes sustainability, consistency and resilience. Nurtures a culture focused on creating a meaningful journey. Emphasizes the importance of reliability and a controlled course through challenges and survival of all. Ark-Leaders prioritize long-term success and consider the environmental and social impact for next generations to come.

The Ark upholds a commitment to leaving a positive legacy for future generations. Collaboration as the Wind in Your Sails is with no doubt still in vogue.

Just as a captain carefully navigates a ship through turbulent waters, leaders must steer their organizations towards a destination that aligns with both: impact and sustainability. Impactful leadership goes beyond short-term gains, considering the broader implications of decisions on stakeholders, the environment, and society as a whole.

A Metaphor for a Regenerative Leadership Approach:

Imagine a fleet of boats sailing together towards a common goal. Each vessel, be it a speedboat, a fisher boat, or an ark, contributes its unique strengths to the collective journey. Similarly, successful collaboration in the business world beyond your own ecosystem involves recognizing and valuing the diverse skills and talents that each team member brings to the table.

Steering Towards Impact and Sustainability:

Leaders who prioritize a regenerative leadership mindset understand the importance of long-term success over quick wins. Like a ship built to weather storms, sustainable organizations are resilient and adaptable, ready to face challenges head-on. By integrating regenerative practices into the fabric of the business, leaders not only future-proof their organizations but also contribute positively to the world around them.

Do we miss out exploring fabulous new islands as a fleet of ships?!

Which boat you tend to steer when times are rough and you have to navigate the dynamic seas of business with resilience and foresight?!

Love to hear your thoughts in the comments and at the upcoming https://www.futureofleadership.salon/salon2024 on April 25th in Düsseldorf at P3 . PM me if you like to join.