The Unconventional Leader: Leadership Lessons from My Dog, 'Mango'

When many of us think about leadership, our minds instinctively gravitate towards sports stars, corporate leaders, or impactful community figures. While there's a wealth of wisdom to be gleaned from these individuals, a recent reflection led me to an unconventional guru: my dog, Mango. Roughly 2.5 years ago, in the shadows of a devastating pandemic and amidst personal grief, Mango came into my life. For dog enthusiasts, the sheer joy these creatures bring is self-explanatory. Yet Mango was different; he was not just a source of comfort but a profound teacher. I've unpacked a series of lessons from my time with Mango. Here's what I've learned...

1. The Power of Letting Go: In today's polarized world, dogs like Mango stand out as perfect models of unconditional love. Mango embodies the phrase "let bygones be bygones." I’m reminded of so several irritable moments post work where I’ve snapped at Mango verbally -Yet, he's there, eager to shower me with affection immediately in no time. Imagine if teams adopted this canine trait of forgiveness, setting aside their egos. Our workplaces and homes would be a different world altogether - A world that beautifully embraces each other's flaws!

2. The Importance of Presence: Mango has taught me the value of being fully present in the moment. Whether we're going for a walk or simply sitting together, he reminds me to appreciate the small joys in life. In a society that is constantly distracted and multitasking, Mango's ability to focus on the present moment is a valuable lesson in mindfulness and finding contentment. If we could all learn to embrace this mindset, our lives would be enriched with deeper connections and joy.?

3. Observation: The Silent Key to Understanding: While many believe dogs grasp our language, Mango unveiled a different truth. I learned that understanding often stems from observation. He discerned routines, picked up patterns, and anticipated needs without a word being spoken. This lesson reminded me of the power of keen observation in leadership. How much deeper would our connections be if we just observed a little more and assumed a little less? By observing Mango, I am always reminded of how effective communication goes beyond words. It requires us to pay attention to nonverbal cues, body language, and subtle changes in behaviour. If we cultivate the skill of keen observation, we can foster stronger relationships and prevent unnecessary misunderstandings in both personal and professional settings.?

4. The Mastery of Consistency: Every morning, Mango is my 6:30 a.m. wake-up call. His dedication to his routine, regardless of external factors, is remarkable. He's not just punctual; he's consistent. There's something deeply inspiring about this simple canine habit. If we could embrace even a fraction of their routine-focused mindset, our productivity and focus could soar. As leaders, harnessing this kind of consistency in our pursuits—this unwavering commitment to our vision—can be the key to transformative success.

5. Peer Learning: A Canine Approach: Anyone who's observed Mango over time would attest to his profound fear of water. On previous occasions, even the slightest splash would send him scurrying away. This phobia was unmistakably evident during our recent stay at a beach resort in Kannur. On the first day, he wouldn’t dare approach the waves, maintaining a cautious distance. That same day, Mango forged an unexpected bond with some local street dogs. By day two, a subtle shift was visible. The 3 streeties mentored Mango to venture into the water - With hesitant steps at first, he followed their lead!This journey of Mango's wasn't just about conquering a fear; it was a testament to the power of peer learning. As leaders, are we open enough to learn from those around us, to let our guards down and embrace new experiences?

As I reflect on these intricate lessons from Mango, I'm struck by the vast reservoir of insights our daily lives offer. For leadership wisdom, sometimes it's worth looking beyond traditional classrooms and seminars. Our most profound teachers might just be living amongst us, sharing our homes and hearts. For those intrigued by the symbiotic relationship between canine behaviour and human leadership, @Sindhoor Pangal's #Dog Knows is a book that offers a deep dive into this mesmerizing dynamic.