On Leadership: Sloth, Tiger, Swan
That’s what I always say about myself. I’m a follower, a team player. I like to sit in the back and slouch down in my seat. I was an actor for almost twenty years, literally a puppet for someone else’s words and clothes and hairstyles. I’m not a leader.
This self imposed identity gets a little complicated when someone mentions the fact that I LITERALLY AM A LEADER. I lead retreats, workshops, speaking events, a nonprofit, and Blue Mala.
So, why is it so hard for me to see myself that way?
A few months ago, I attended a leadership conference (more evidence proving me wrong) and we learned about leadership techniques, communication styles, and steps for long-lasting organizational transformation. We did team-building exercises and were given infuriating tasks that brought out the worst in all of us and made my introverted soul want to weep in the corner.
But there were many useful things I learned. One of them is Sloth, Tiger, Swan.
It’s about different styles of leadership, and when we might want to embody one type of animal over another.
When we are in Sloth, we are moving slowly. We are in a contemplative space, accessing the present moment, and deeply considering our next steps.
When we are in Tiger, we are going for it. Bounding bravely into the bushes, on the hunt, moving fast.
When we are in Swan, we are putting in effort, but in a graceful way. We are gliding, taking up our space by spreading our wings, every move intentional and mindful.
I love this because it is about animals, and nothing is better than animals. But also because it means I don’t have to be just one thing all the time. I had this idea about leaders being constantly confident, headstrong and hierarchical. But it’s more than that.
As leaders — and I would argue as humans — we need to skillfully shift from one type of energy to another. We don’t have to be one thing all the time, we contain multitudes. We can look at any situation, and ask ourselves: what is needed here?
I can Sloth when I’m in a state of inquiry, reflecting on the next steps for my businesses or my life. Then I can switch to Tiger when it’s time to get decisive and pounce on opportunites. I attempt to make Swan my baseline. There is effort happening below the surface; propelling me forward, but there is also a grace and deeply embodied peace — at least for the most part.
Because seriously, don’t fuck with a swan.
Here’s what else happened this week:
I was so touched by the positive feedback I got on last week’s paid subscriber newsletter, so I thought I would make it free and available to everyone. Thank you.
I read this book and was surprised to love it since it’s not my usual genre. I will skip the part where I do the stereotypical wailing about how the book is so much better than the movie, because OBVIOUSLY. I can’t say that I enjoyed this movie, becuase it’s a pretty fucked up thing. But I think the premise is interesting and it stuck with me for a couple of days, so there’s that.
I will never tire of watching people throw pots. This is meditation in motion.
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January 10, 2024
Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds
The jury is still out on this one for me. David Goggins is the only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller. The book outlines his brutal childhood and his techniques for overcoming challenges with what he calls mental toughness. There are some helpful ideas here, but it’s heavy-handed and missing something.
BURNOUT PREVENTION How To Thrive In A Challenging World
Kripalu is just pure magic. I love every chance I have to go there, and I am so looking forward to this brand-new program I’m offering next month. This weekend will be a chance to reconnect with our priorities and create a meaningful path forward. We’ll do some yoga and writing. We’ll discuss the important things and rest and have fun. I hope you can join me. Click the link for more info and to reserve your spot.
Thank you for reading, friends.
Much love,
~Lisa
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