What Can Your Dog Teach You About Leadership
As a leadership professor, I often think about what makes a great leader. While theories and case studies provide valuable insights, some of the most profound lessons come from unexpected places. Recently, as I was walking my dog Scout, it occurred to me that dogs are actually one of the best sources of leadership wisdom.
Dogs have been by our side for thousands of years. They give us unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship. But beyond these qualities, dogs also exhibit behaviors that can teach us important leadership lessons. In this article, I’ll explore three of these lessons: being present, embracing consistency, and fostering empathy.
The Power of Being Present
Dogs are incredibly good at living in the moment. Have you ever noticed how your dog’s eyes light up when you grab a ball or when they see their leash? In those moments, they are completely focused on what’s happening right then and there. They aren’t worried about what happened earlier in the day or what might happen later. They’re just happy to be with you, fully engaged in the present moment.
As leaders, being present is one of the most powerful skills we can cultivate. When you’re present, you’re not distracted by your phone, your next meeting, or the thousand other things on your to-do list. You’re fully engaged with the person in front of you, listening to them, and giving them your full attention.
Being present has several benefits. First, it builds trust. When your team knows that you’re fully engaged in the conversation, they feel valued and respected. They know that their thoughts and opinions matter to you. This trust is the foundation of a strong team.
Also, being present allows you to make better decisions. When you’re fully engaged, you pick up on details you might otherwise miss. You notice body language, tone of voice, and other subtle cues that can provide important context. This awareness helps you make more informed decisions that are in the best interest of your team and organization.
Finally, being present improves relationships. People want to feel heard and understood. Nobody wants to have a leader who doesn’t listen to them. When you’re present, you can connect with your team on a deeper level. This connection makes them more likely to follow your lead and work together toward common goals.
Consistency Builds Trust
If there’s one thing dogs love, it’s routine. My dog, Scout, knows exactly when it’s time for his walk or his meal. If I’m ever late, he lets me know by sitting by his bowl or leash. This consistency in our daily routine builds trust. He knows he can count on me to take care of him. That reliability makes him feel secure.
In leadership, consistency is just as crucial. Consistency means acting in predictable ways that align with your values and expectations. When you’re consistent, your team knows what to expect from you. They know how you’ll respond in certain situations, what you prioritize, and what you stand for.
Consistency builds trust because it creates a stable environment. When people know what to expect, they feel more secure and confident in their roles. They aren’t left guessing how you might react or what direction you’ll take next. This predictability allows them to focus on their work. They know that you’re a steady and reliable leader.
Inconsistency erodes trust. If for example, one day you’re supportive and encouraging and the next you’re critical and distant, your team won’t know how to approach you. They might hesitate to bring up ideas or concerns because they’re unsure how you’ll respond. This uncertainty can lead to a breakdown in communication and a decrease in productivity.
Just as dogs thrive on routine, teams thrive under consistent leadership. By being consistent in your actions and words, you can build a foundation of trust that empowers your team to perform at their best.
Empathy Is Essential
One of the most remarkable qualities of dogs is their ability to read our emotions. If you have a rough day, you will notice how your dog seems to know exactly how you’re feeling. They might come over, lay their head on your lap, or simply sit beside you. This behavior is a clear example of empathy. Dogs have an innate ability to pick up on our emotions and respond in ways that offer comfort and connection.
In leadership, empathy is a critical skill. It involves understanding and being sensitive to the emotions, needs, and perspectives of others. Empathy allows leaders to connect with their team members on a human level. This connection is essential for building strong relationships and a positive work environment.
When leaders show empathy, they create a space where people feel understood and valued. This fosters a sense of belonging and trust within the team. Team members are more likely to open up about their ideas, challenges, and concerns when they feel that their leader truly cares about them.
Empathy also plays a key role in conflict resolution. When a leader is empathetic, they can better understand the root causes of conflicts. They can also address them in a way that respects everyone involved. This approach leads to more effective and lasting resolutions, and also to a more harmonious work environment.
Finally, empathy boosts morale and productivity. When people feel supported and valued, they’re more motivated to contribute their best work. They will go the extra mile when they know their leader genuinely cares about their well-being.
Final Thoughts
So, what can dogs teach us about leadership? A lot more than we might realize. By being present, consistent, and empathetic, we can lead our teams with the same loyalty and trust that our dogs show us every day.
Next time you spend time with your dog, take a moment to observe their behavior. Notice how they engage with you, how they stick to their routine, and how they respond to your emotions. These simple acts hold powerful lessons for anyone in a leadership role.
You can view my YouTube video on this topic here:
