People often tell me that my horses are ‘different,’ because they are so willing to fully engage with people. While I used to shrug and accept the feedback, I spent a lot of time analysing why my horses seemed ‘different.’
I concluded that perhaps I create the conditions for them to be ‘different.’ I realised that when I had my own consulting business with a team of over 40 people, I inadvertently did the same thing – I created the conditions for them to bring their whole, creative, engaged selves to their work.
This perspective – of ‘creating conditions’ helps me remember that everyone matters, and acknowledge their contribution and efforts. I have learned – especially since working with horses, that when I get ‘out of the driver’s seat,’ greater things are possible.
Like people, horses stop trying to communicate when no one listens. They ‘go through the motions,’ and become less engaged, and less instrumental in contributing to the overall goals. Also, I have come to understand that everything is information, and since everyone’s perspective contributes to the whole, success (however you want to define it) is adversely impacted when some perspectives are not included.
Like people, horses are willing to ‘be themselves’ when they know they are safe. No one – human or horse, is willing to ‘be different,’ creative, self-expressive, or honest if they are fearful of being punished.
Like people, horses need congruence from their leader to feel safe. Regardless of human or horse, we can all sense when something is ‘not right,’ such as when one’s actions don’t match their thoughts or feelings, or if something is being withheld. And it can be as simple as acknowledging the incongruence to bring about a sense of relief.
Like people, horses are most willing and able to engage and contribute when they are treated with respect. It sounds obvious, but we can become so focused on achieving the desired goal, that we don’t take the time and effort to respect others. Horses have taught me time and again that genuine respect is the shortest path to the desired goal.
Like people, horses thrive on reciprocal trust. I trust them to contribute in what ever way is best and appropriate for them, and they trust me to create the best and appropriate conditions.
Creating conditions for others to express and experience their whole, unique, and creative selves leads to a rewarding experience where everyone benefits, and greater things are possible.
What are the beliefs and behaviours you need to develop to create the conditions to lead your ‘herd” – whether it be your organization, team, community, family?