Robert McNeish wrote “Lessons from the Geese” in 1972 for a church sermon. In it, he shares 5 facts about our feathered fowls that might teach us a thing or two about our own relationships.
- As each goose flaps its wings it creates an “uplift” for the birds that follows. By flying in a V formation, the whole flock adds greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.
- When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front of it.
- When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.
- The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
- When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock.
Lessons learned?
- Align yourself with people who share a common direction; supporting each other will help you get “there” faster.
- Things are easier if you willing to accept other people’s help; remember to play nice.
- It is okay to share the burden of leadership; people are interdependent on each others’ skills and resources.
- Be your team’s greatest cheerleader; encouraging others will help the team get to its destination faster and with more rigor.
- It is even more important to stick together in times of duress.
