Stephen M. Hannemann

Geese, the Teachers

Author: Stephen

A few weeks ago, I wrote two essays one about influence; another about membership. The two subjects are complimentary and, I believe, synonymous. The crux of my essay on influence is that we are all people of influence. Also in that essay, I pointed out, as brothers and sisters of the human race, we are all interconnected. The result should be a sense of community. In the essay regarding membership, I pointed out that we all have gifts and abilities. We are each unique. If our gifts and abilities are shared, again, the result should be a sense of community.

This essay is written for all of the people just like you and me who are members of an organization, club, church body, political party, or team at work that could use your gifts and talents. What is it that you love to do? What is it that you are comfortable doing? And what is it that you could do that would stretch your ability or talent? This essay is about improving and creating power. When we give and stretch, we improve and grow. When we give and stretch, our organization improves and gains strength. It’s the dynamic! It’s teamwork! It’s fostering a sense of community!

A few days ago, my sister emailed an article about the migration of Canadian geese. The article poignantly pointed out the uncanny instincts of why the geese fly in formation. I think I can safely say that we have all viewed a V of geese flying overhead at one time or another.

Here are some incredible facts: Geese fly in V formation because their wing strokes create an updraft, allowing the goose behind to expend less energy. When the lead goose becomes fatigued, the goose immediately behind rotates into the lead position. If a goose becomes disabled or sick, two geese will accompany the ailing goose down and stay with it until it regains strength, or dies. Then the two will either pick up another V, or fly in tandem, trading the lead, to catch the original V. Flying in formation allows geese to fly 71% farther, with less effort, than if flying alone. As a team, the geese behind, honk encouragement to the leaders. A team committed to one another, and a common goal, is more effective than the effort of one.

Which goose are you – do you fly with the V, or do you fly alone?

Live well.

Stephen

© Stephen M. Hannemann – all rights reserved.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 7th, 2009 at 7:40 pm and is filed under Motivation. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.