The Wolf Pack Principle

One of our coaching clients recently prepared a list of rules that a pack of wolves will follow in order to show how a group of wolves instinctively follows rules, that us humans could learn from. He read the rules to me one by one in order to see if there is anything worth commenting on and implementing into his own learnings as a leader. The first three of those rules relate directly to leadership.

We've all had a boss who is more focused on themselves than on their team. They believe they alone are the reason for the team's success and insist you pay more attention to their actions because "you could learn a thing or two." However, observe the team around them: they don't respect this leader. Instead, they tolerate them and quickly learn to manipulate the leader's ego for their own benefit or a quieter life. This is not the kind of leader any team wants. In a pack of wolves, such a leader would be ousted or the pack would go hungry. In human society, a leader should embody an unwavering commitment to the well-being of the group and convince others that unity is essential for survival. When a leader promotes cohesion through personal example and demonstrates how unity boosts collective confidence and security, the group will recognize and respect that leadership. Essentially, set the example, and your team will follow.

Whether animal or human, it is a rule that relates to any clan or group. Leaders need to be very clear, confident and able to impose their will at any given time. In the same breath, they should be able to end quarrels, slander and other negative relationships immediately, if required. With everyone understanding that that the leader has the final say on all matters, even after taking on group feedback and thoughts, the decisions fall to them. While the leader acts out of total devotion to their group, the group feels a certain extent of fear, respect and obedience toward them.

There’s a great quote from former University of Cal & Yale Rowing Head Coach Steve Gladstone. On his more from the University of Cal to the Prestigious Yale, a reporter asked if he thought the new role would be challenging at such a prestigious rowing program and that perhaps he wasn’t up to the task. His reply was simple….

“Throw me to the wolves and I’ll returning leading the pack.”
- Steve Gladstone.

Among people, being the first means accepting all the blows and problems that arise in society or working environment. It means that we relate to society like our family, and the leader is like the traditional father in the family, taking responsibility for the problem that reveals itself. Among animals, one that fails to accept responsibility is instantly removed from their group. We would be wise to learn from this example — that we need to accept responsibility for all problems that arise in our environment. An atmosphere of mutual responsibility in society would impact a tremendous shift to a much more harmonious and peaceful existence. It would also null and void chaotic elements such as ego which destroys most high functioning teams at the pivotal movements throughout the sporting season.

Wolves, however, operate instinctively, with a clear understanding of their needs. In contrast, humans are guided by reason, often influenced by ego. Wolves live and survive according to their inherent nature and environmental conditions, adhering to a single way of life. Humans, on the other hand, rarely follow a singular path, frequently avoiding responsibility and expecting others to fend for themselves.

In high-performance sports, this distinction is crucial. High-performing teams thrive when every member is aligned with a shared goal, instinctively supporting each other. Unlike the often fragmented approach humans take in daily life, successful sports teams cannot afford to let ego and individualism dominate. They must cultivate a unity where each player takes responsibility, ensuring the team's collective success. This cohesion, mirroring the wolves' natural instinct, is what drives exceptional performance and achievement in sports.

Coaches Notes:

1. ^{Leadership through Responsibility:}

   ^{True leaders take charge of organising and protecting their team, earning respect and loyalty by demonstrating strength and responsibility.}

2. ^{Promoting Unity and Leading by Example:}

   ^{Effective leadership involves fostering group cohesion through personal example, highlighting how unity enhances collective confidence and security.}

3. ^{Conflict Resolution and Authority:}

   ^{Leaders must confidently resolve conflicts and negative behaviours quickly, maintaining a harmonious and cohesive atmosphere within the team is vital when building confidence.}

4. ^{Accepting Responsibility:}

   ^{Leaders should be the first to tackle challenges and accept responsibility for problems, creating a culture of mutual responsibility and reducing chaos caused by ego or misinformation.}

5. ^{Instinctive Team Support:}

   ^{High-performing teams succeed when all members are aligned with shared goals and instinctively support each other, avoiding ego and individualism for collective success.}

   The best aren’t getting better on their own, they’re getting better because they are being coached.

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