And what does this have to do with LEADERSHIP?
Do you believe this is true?
I don’t.
Let me explain…
If you want to get a horse to drink, you have a few options:
Option 1—You can beat him and try to make him drink. (A fear-based tactic and one I DON’T recommend—literally or theoretically)
Option 2—You can wait and wait and hope that eventually the horse will drink on it’s own. (An option which can be frustrating and time-consuming)
Option 3—You can figure out what makes the horse thirsty.
(Hint: salt makes a horse thirsty—create the conditions and environment to influence the desired outcome)
This doesn’t mean manipulation. It’s about positive inspiration.
As leaders, we often experience similar challenges with those we lead.
We need to get a certain outcome, but may struggle to get people engaged.
❌ Just like with that horse, we can use
- fear-based tactics,
- punitive strategies, or
- impose harsh consequences for undesired behaviors.
(many type-A leaders resort to this out of impatience)
❌ Or, we can wait and wait and hope and stay frustrated, because things aren’t changing quickly enough.
(many people-loving and patient leaders do this in an effort to give space/time to people and to show respect…
…but they don’t meet their objectives this way)
✅ Or, we can invest the time to get to know our people, and learn what makes them “thirsty” (what inspires and motivates them).
We can intentionally create an environment where people feel drawn to engage, and are inspired to contribute at a higher level.
The next time you’re tempted to feel frustrated at OR because of your team, remember the horse.
And ask yourself:
“What can I think or do differently as a leader to get a better result?”