They say it’s the journey… not the destination. But, as a type A person and very goal oriented, I have places to go and things to do.  And I’m pretty good at achieving things. In fact during my career in both the nonprofit and corporate world, and as an entrepreneur, many would say I was a good leader in moving things forward and accomplishing objectives.

In sum… I was passionate, successful and a driven leader. 

Even when I walked our dog, I had a brisk pace on a given route. And I would even occasionally take her along on my morning run. The bottom line… I had only so much time in the mornings and in the evenings to take her out to do her business and she needed to cooperate. I told myself she was very well trained!

Yet, along the way… I forgot to stop and smell the flowers. I forgot to honor Mother nature as I hurridly went my way. I forgot to look up… to look down.

Both of us are older now and I’m still busy, but on my walks with my sweet pooch, even though my instinct is to still to take the lead, I’ve started to slow down and follow her. So, now it's the “Sniff tour, and as she meanders through trails, under the trees, and directs me down unfamiliar paths. I find I’m much more relaxed and I notice things never seen before. I’ve become in tune with the trees, bushes, and mushrooms along the trail. And truth be told, when my dog has had her fill of connecting with the outdoors, and wants to go back, she lets me know and as I check my watch, the walk has only taken an extra 5 minutes. A few more moments for a much “richer” and rewarding walk, listening to the birds, noticing the pinecones on the trees, and taking in the beauty of nature.

It made me think there may be a few lessons here, as we consider our leadership styles and how we interact with others.  Perhaps we are missing some valuable and important insights by always being at the front driving towards a destination instead of enjoying the journey.

1.     Slowing down gives one time to step back and notice the small details. It’s a more observant role that may provide new perspectives and insights.

2.     Slowing down gives one the opportunity to explore new directions and paths that you may have never considered .

3.     Slowing down allows you to pause, be still and practice mindfulness, potentially reducing stress and anxiety.

So, THANK YOU... to all our dogs, that remind us to slow down as leaders to enjoy the journey - letting go to experience new perspectives and the moment.