Lessons From the Geese

If you live in an area where geese are common, you see them coming or going in the Fall and Spring. Their migration is an awesome sight. There is an interdependence in the way geese function which is useful to understand for team functioning. Consider the following:

Fact

As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an "up lift" for the bird following. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.

 

Lesson

If we have as much sense as a goose, we'll know that people who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on each other's thrust.

Fact

Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone. It quickly gets back into the formation to take advantage of the "lifting power" of the goose immediately in front.

 

Lesson

If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those who are headed in the direction we want to go.

Fact

When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies at the point position.

 

Lesson

If we have as much sense as a goose, we will take turns doing the hard tasks and will share leadership roles. We'll also take the opportunity to rest and nurture ourselves so that we come back strong and renewed.

Fact

The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.

 

Lesson

If we have as much sense as a goose, we will make sure that our "honking" from behind is encouraging, and not something less helpful.

Fact

When a goose gets sick or wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation to follow her down to help and protect her. They stay with her until she is either able to fly again or dies. Then they launch out on their own with another formation or catch up with their flock.

 

Lesson

If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stand by each other.

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