As leaders, one of the greatest skills we can help our teams develop is resiliency—the ability to adapt and keep moving forward. When it comes to resilience, we can take a few lessons from our canine companions.
Lesson one: Shake it off. Mistakes and challenges are inevitable, but they shouldn’t derail progress. Just like our pups shake off water, teams should be encouraged to shake it off, and dive right back in. Create a culture where failure is seen as a learning opportunity, not a stopping point.
Lesson two: Foster adaptability. Change can be tough—whether it’s a new process or a new leader. Like a rescue adjusting to a new home, teams need guidance and reassurance. Provide clear communication and support them as they navigate through change.
Lesson three: Promote persistence. Resilient teams don’t give up at the first roadblock; they stay the course. Encourage problem-solving, celebrate progress, and remind your team that challenges are often steppingstones to success.
Lesson four: Build a strong pack. Dogs don’t thrive alone, and neither do we. Resilience is easier when people feel connected and supported. As a leader, you can foster collaboration, mentorship, and an environment where employees know they can count on each other.
And finally, lesson five: Find joy in the small things. Burnout and stress can break even the strongest teams. Encourage employees to celebrate small wins and recognize each other’s efforts to maintain a positive work environment.
Resilient teams grow stronger with the right support and encouragement. As a leader, you set the tone by providing the tools, resources, and environment for your team to navigate change with confidence.
At Evolve, we specialize in helping organizations build resilient, adaptable teams that can confidently navigate any challenge. Let’s work together to create a workforce that’s ready for whatever comes next.