Do you ever stop and think about what your dog can teach you about business and life in general? These creatures may seem like simple beings but their instinctual actions hold much meaning. Here are a few of the lessons I've learned from my two lovables; they're not just darn cute, they're pretty smart!
Dog owners truly love their little beasties. We snuggle, play, and care for them and, if you're like me, you thank the Universe for your pooch every, single day.
But
The Art of Listening
Who listens better than your faithful pooch? Those gorgeous eyes tell you he's listening even if he may not be capable of providing feedback. But we don't always need feedback, do we? There is no more valuable quality than the ability to lend an ear. And our four-legged friends have that down.
Two-way communication is the key to a successful business, but many people don't seem to understand that skilled listening, not talking, should make up the majority of their communication. Your customers, prospects, partners, and employees have a lot to say. Do more listening than talking and experience the magic!
Thorough Investigation
We've all witnessed how dogs use that powerful sniffer to greet one another and how thorough they are in assessing whether or not to befriend a new acquaintance. If your dog doesn't like the other dog after a few sniffs she will have nothing to do with them. If she senses a threat she may even become aggressive, guarding her territory (and you) with a vengeance.
Sometimes in their haste to close a deal, develop a partnership, or hire a new employee entrepreneurs fail to do their due diligence. Thoroughly investigate those with whom you wish to develop a relationship. And most importantly, take a page from Fido's book and follow your instincts!
Foregiveness
Who can stir up feelings of guilt better than a dog who's been “abandoned” by his vacationing owner? Even though Fido's been left in good hands he can send strong signals letting you know that his feelings have been hurt by your absence. But a pat on the head and a yummy treat will get his tail wagging once again; he loves you and won't hold a grudge for long.
While it's important to develop keen instincts and learn from your experiences, it's also important to forgive and let go. Too many entrepreneurs fail to forgive employees who make a mistake or a customer who occasionally becomes overly demanding. These grudges will keep you from being your best self and making decisions that are in the best interest of your company. Open communication is critical, especially amongst team members. Don't let things fester, course-correct and move on.
Sharing Products
Even if dogs are rather impartial about one another like my two guys are, they will snuggle up on a chilly evening to share their warmth. They eat out of one another's bowls and share a water bowl without thinking twice about it. And they wait patiently for their turn, respecting one another's needs.
While it may seem contrary to success, people who you may consider competitors just might be willing to share a mutually beneficial relationship. I love networking with other coaches and business consultants. We learn from one another, share valuable information, and boost one another's spirit. When you come across a great tidbit of information reach out to a peer and share, using good judgement of course. Competition can be friendly and even produce the occasional lead.
Team Work
Dogs share responsibility across the pack. They tune into each other's needs and emotions by observing facial expressions and body cues, just like an evolved human does. The pack knows one another as well as they know themselves because their very existence depends on it. When a stranger enters my home you bet that my two canine companions work side-by-side to make sure the “intruder” is not a threat.
Delegation is one of the most threatening tasks for many entrepreneurs. After all, no one can do the job like you can, right? You may be surprised to find that there are people who can do it even better if you let them. If you develop a culture of team work in your business you are far more likely to thrive and succeed.
So what have you learned from your pets? If you study them closely there are many bits of wisdom to be garnered—your furry friends are more worldly than you may think!
