The vet came to our barn today to give the horses their Spring shots and to do some other assorted check-ups of leg boo-boos and other minor items. I had the opportunity to help out with all twelve horses, including River, and watch the vet at work. It is always interesting observing each horse and their reaction to the vet, and it is always a fantastic learning experience with our vet as he graciously shares his expertise. I always leave the barn feeling so much smarter about my horse and about horse health after spending time with our vet!
Watching the vet is watching leadership in action. He is able to read each horse and change his style of engaging with each horse based upon the horse's reactions and needs. He is able to observe a myriad of details about a horse's physical condition based upon "book knowledge" as well as "experiential knowledge" and develop a recommended course of action. In the midst of all this, he appears to do it effortlessly, maintaining and aura of confidence and composure.
Just as with horses, leadership in the human arena involves adjusting leadership styles based upon each person's reactions and needs, and evaluating personnel and situations based upon a combination of formal and experiential knowledge. The leaders that most resonate with us are those that appear to do this effortlessly and through their confidence and composure make us want to follow them.
So, who has exemplified leadership for you today?
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