The Story of Primal Leadership

For those who know me well, you've heard about my enduring passion for horsemanship. Over 20 years, at my spare time, I have spent working, studying and researching equestrian behaviors in relations to leadership, non-verbal and non-violent communications. Observing, and being surrounded by these majestic creatures, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between their natural leadership structures and the leadership lessons handed down through generations.

I do ride, of course, though for me, it was never about the ribbons, competitions, or fame. It’s about the profound lessons in compassion, connection, and non-verbal communication that come from the heart-to-heart relationships in the equestrian world.

Have you ever seen...

... the vast plains and rugged terrains of the American West, where the sky meets the earth in an unbroken horizon, and wild horses run free? In these landscapes, herds led by a single stallion move with a grace and unity that speaks of ancient wisdom and primal instincts.

It’s truly unforgettable.

If only we could make our modern leaders to get inspired by the stories of wild horse herds and tribal chiefs, transforming his leadership style, instead of ruling with an iron fist, adopting a more empathetic approach, listening intently to employees and valuing their feedback.

Leads by example, showing calmness in the face of challenges and making decisions that reflect the collective good, creating a legacy that is both impactful and enduring.

The Essence of Primal Leadership

Primal leadership is a term that encapsulates the raw, instinctual qualities of leading that are deeply embedded in the natural world. It speaks to the kind of leadership that is not learned in boardrooms or business schools but is felt, sensed, and lived. It is about harnessing the innate qualities of empathy, strength, loyalty, and vision that are found in the most primal of settings.

The Leader of the Herd

Mark Rashid, a renowned horse trainer and author, has shared profound insights into the leadership dynamics of wild horse herds. In a herd, the leader is not the one who exerts the most force but the one who commands the deepest respect and trust. The lead stallion does not control the herd through fear but guides them with a calm and assertive presence. His primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and cohesion of the group, leading them to water, food, and away from danger.

This stallion embodies what can be termed as “soft leadership” – a leadership style that emphasizes understanding, patience, and subtlety over aggression and dominance. The stallion listens to the needs of his herd, reacts to threats with measured calmness, and makes decisions that reflect the collective good.

'Tribal" Leadership

Similarly, to herds, some native tribes across the world and America have long practiced a form of leadership that is deeply rooted in communal values and respect for all living beings. Leaders in these tribes are chosen not just for their ability to lead but for their wisdom, compassion, and ability to listen. They embody a sense of responsibility that goes beyond personal ambition, focusing instead on the well-being of the tribe and the preservation of their way of life.

The responsibilities of these leaders are manifold. They must ensure the physical safety of their people, guide them through challenging times, and maintain the cultural and spiritual integrity of the tribe. Their leadership is characterized by a deep sense of commitment and an understanding that their role is to serve, not to dominate.

Insights into Heard-to-Heart Leadership

1. Emotional Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence: Effective leaders are deeply aware of their own emotions, allowing them to act with authenticity and integrity. This self-awareness fosters trust and respect within their teams. The ability to manage one’s own emotions and respond effectively to the emotions of others is critical. Leaders who cultivate emotional intelligence navigate the complexities of the modern workplace with grace and effectiveness.

2. Empathy and Understanding: Like the stallion who senses the needs of his herd, corporate leaders should develop a keen sense of empathy and understanding. This involves listening to employees, valuing their contributions, and addressing their concerns with sincerity.

3. Calm Assertiveness and Relationship Management: Much like a lead stallion maintaining harmony within the herd, leadership does not require loud commands or aggressive tactics. The calm assertiveness seen in primal leaders helps in making thoughtful and balanced decisions, especially in times of crisis.

4. Inspirational Leadership: Inspirational leaders create a shared sense of purpose and direction, inspire those around them with a vision that resonates with others and the ability to communicate it compellingly. This inspiration drives the herd to follow the stallion and motivates tribal members to stand by their chief.

5. Collective Well-being and Responsibility: Prioritize the well-being of the collective over individual gains by creating a work environment that promotes collaboration, trust, and mutual respect.

The shift is possible towards better understanding, trust and greater gains and it happens one person at a time who is wiling to take a step towards better-self, regardless on where they are in their journey, as

leadership

is not a title,

it is a state of being.