I believe you can learn something from everyone you meet.
From listening to the homeless man’s story,
From the single mother of three,
And the janitor, cashier, or toll booth operator.
From those with different political views,
The grandmother who used to be an exotic dancer,
As well as the tycoon who hustled his best friend and now feels great regret.

Recently while walking on the beach, it struck me how much I can learn from our feathered friends too. I scrolled through the 23,456 pictures of birds I’ve taken since moving to the beach (ok, I may be exaggerating a bit for effect) and want to share my top takeaways. I’ll call them Lessons from Fred.

1. Hang out with those who are different than you – I love how often I see the different types of birds co-existing and even enjoying each other’s company (or so it appears). When I spend time with people of different backgrounds, experiences, traits, and perspectives, I always learn something that makes me better/more open/understanding.
   
2. Ride the current – While you often think of birds flapping their wings, many have mastered the art of soaring that is far more efficient. Using physics and air currents to benefit from gliding to ease what would otherwise be exhausting. Where can you take advantage of a system or process that can make your life and work easier? I like to make use of my energy in the morning and software that reminds and organizes me.
   
3. Dive in – It’s so much fun to watch Pelicans, Eagles, and others use their keen eyesight while flying and then dive in to ‘acquire’ their meal. This clip shows there’s no hesitation, just confidence. I’m also a fan of diving into an opportunity instead of waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment. I know many folks who wait, research, wait some more, ask for advice, revamp, and then miss out. If we’re always learning and growing, we’re likely to be ready when positive possibilities present themselves.  Watch video HERE
4. Take turns leading – Birds take turns leading the V in their formation. It distributes the workload maximizing energy, facilitates communication and coordination, and enables them to be more effective. (ie fly longer distances) If you’re a leader who thinks you have to ‘do it all’, consider the benefits of giving others on your team opportunities to demonstrate their leadership. It could make your team more effective, increase morale, and even create new solutions or ways of doing things.
   

There are other Lessons from Fred, but these are 4 good ones. Let me know what you took away…and also comment if you have your own lessons that Fred (or all of use) can grow from.