How do dogs help people learn to manage well?
Academic study consists of theories and hypothesis. That’s good to help humans expand thinking. However, in the real world, we soon discover that theories and hypothesis are relatively useless. Experience is the great teacher.
Theories and hypotheses also don’t deal with human fundamentals. It’s all about models. Experience teaches that humans are not like boxes and no business or organization “fits a particular model”. Built by people, each one is unique. Also, there are some fundamentals which need to be practiced consistently.
One of those notions is managing your own energy.
What do I mean?
What I mean is that if you cannot manage your own energy, you simply cannot manage anyone else’s either in a positive way.
Sure you can yell. That’ll manage energy. But in the way you don’t want.
You can cojole and coerce. Again, the results won’t be what you want.
So where can you learn?
On tv.
The Dog Whisperer Can Become your Teacher
Watch the Dog Whisperer with Cesar Milan. You’ll be amazed how much you learn.
At first, you might think I’m crazy. But if you intently watch how he “trains the people and rehabilitates the dogs”, you’ll see how it can work for you too.
If you have never managed, this suggestion may seem like an exercise in futility. However, if you have managed big and small groups as I have, you’ll understand the important fundamental principle which will help you manage well.
That principle is simple to understand, not so simple to master especially when the stress factor comes into the picture.
Watch how Cesar Milan manages his energy and teaches people to manage theirs. Watch the results on the dogs’ behaviors. In the workplace, it is as critical to use this principle to manage your work, the people you supervise and the boss you need to satisfy. You’ll also learn, most importantly, that there are no bad people – just poor management. All people want to do a good job and be seen in that way. It is up to the manager to assure that the “talents of each dog on their team” uses their innate talents to help the team succeed.
I encourage anyone in management or soon to be in management, to watch this show regularly and truly absorb the lessons. Some of the lessons are not so obvious. It’s a terrific way to learn how to manage different personalities and work with what’s available.
You’ll be amazed how much you learn and can apply immediately especially to yourself.
Lorraine Arams
http:oncontractonly.com
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