Introduction
The Authentic Leadership through the Gift of Horses programme of USB Executive Development (USB-ED) is a two-day, experiential focusing exercise on you as a leader. Based on Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), experiential activities involving horses are used to create metaphors reflecting real life. Participants learn about themselves by interacting with the horses and then processing behaviours, feelings and behaviours.
Why horses?
- Horses are intuitive creatures, which can show us in an instant when we are fooling ourselves and when we are on the right track.
- As herd animals, which are tuned in to the slightest inconsistency in their environment, they mirror back to us inconsistent behaviour, which we may not have been aware of.
- Working with horses offers the unique experience of developing a deeper understanding of yourself, and how others perceive you, what motivates you, your adaptability and flexibility in changing situations, and your ability to lead.
- They have distinct personalities, attitudes and moods.
- An approach that seems to work with one horse, does not necessarily work with another.
- They like to have fun.
- Accomplishing a task involving a horse provides a wonderful metaphor when dealing with other intimidating situations in life.
What sets this intervention apart
Participants quickly experience that, in working with a horse, exerting power is not an option, and a job title means nothing. Leadership is explored through earning authority, demonstrating authenticity and gaining trust.
Through this programme, you will understand how your leadership style is perceived, by learning from other participants, as well as from a natural leader, a horse! Learning with horses helps build and strengthen:
- leadership skills
- self-awareness
- problem-solving and conflict resolution
- ability to set and honour boundaries
- anger management
- overcoming blind spots and non-verbal communication
- emotional intelligence