Be A Hawk-like Leader
Loud screeching from a group of birds is enough to wake anyone on a Saturday morning. So, much for my no-alarm clock morning. As I walked down to my kitchen I spotted the source of the frantic cries of the birds outside my house. Sitting stoically on the railing of my deck was a majestic hawk. Unphased by the cackling of the small birds sitting above it on the roof of my home, it appeared to be enjoying the morning view (or meditating if hawks do that?).
In the natural world, hawks are renowned for their keen vision, strength, and tenacity. In some cultures, these birds of prey serve as powerful symbols of resilience and overcoming adversity. As a leadership coach, I find inspiration in the hawk’s attributes and believe they offer valuable lessons for anyone striving to overcome life's challenges.
Keen Vision and Focus
Hawks are known for their extraordinary vision. They can spot prey from great distances and remain focused on their target. In life, challenges can often seem overwhelming, obscuring our goals and making it difficult to see a way forward. Like the hawk, maintaining a clear vision of our objectives is crucial. By focusing on what we want to achieve, we can navigate through difficulties and stay on course.
Strength and Perseverance
Hawks are resilient creatures, capable of enduring harsh weather and difficult hunting conditions. Their strength and perseverance are qualities that can inspire us to keep going, even when the going gets tough. Life's challenges often require us to dig deep and find the inner strength to continue moving forward. My wife was laid off for the first time in 25 years working for multiple companies. She could have fallen into depression and negativity having to endure such a traumatic life event. However, after taking a few weeks of deserved rest, she refocused her attention and started the business she always dreamed of owning. She demonstrated her strength and perseverance by hitting the challenge of being unemployed with a positive attitude, newfound energy, and laser-focus.
When faced with such events as a career change or being laid off, one should follow my wife’s example and cultivate resilience by embracing a growth mindset. Viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow rather than insurmountable obstacles, can empower you to persevere through tough times.
Adaptability and Flexibility
Hawks are highly adaptable, able to thrive in diverse environments. This adaptability is a key factor in their survival and success. Similarly, being flexible and open to change can help us navigate life's unpredictable challenges. Adaptability allows us to adjust our strategies and approaches as needed, ensuring we remain resilient in the face of adversity.
By practicing adaptability through being open to new ideas and willing to change your approach when necessary, will open up new opportunities for growth.
The Power of Perspective
From their high vantage points, hawks have a broad perspective of their surroundings. This ability to see the bigger picture can be invaluable when facing challenges. Often, when we are amid difficulties, it’s easy to lose sight of the broader context and become overwhelmed. Going back to the example of my wife, she refused to panic and instead took stock of all her skills, abilities, and connections to identify a path forward. Taking a step back and gaining perspective can help us better understand our challenges and identify potential solutions.
Embracing Resilience
The hawk's resilience is a powerful reminder that we too can overcome life's challenges. By embodying the hawk's keen vision, strength, adaptability, and perspective, we can navigate through difficulties and emerge stronger on the other side.
As a leadership coach, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of the hawk. Trust in your ability to overcome obstacles, maintain your focus, adapt to change, and always keep an eye on the bigger picture. Life's challenges are inevitable, but with resilience and determination, you can soar above them just like the hawk. And remember, the spirit of the hawk is within you, ready to help you soar above all adversity in your life.
