A few months ago, a friend sent me an article that contained information that applies to each of us. It’s about connection, honor, team work and much more. Enjoy!

The next time you see geese flying in “V” formation, there’s a number of interesting components at work within that system. Science as uncovered a number of facts about geese working together, that we can learn from.

First Fact:
As each goose flaps its wings it creates an “uplift” for the birds that follow. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.
Lesson to be Gained:
People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.

Second Fact:
When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.
Lesson to be Gained:
If we have as much sense as a goose we stay in formation with those headed where we want to go. We need to be willing to accept their help and give our help to others.

Third Fact:
When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.
Lesson to be Gained:
It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people are interdependent on each other’s skills, capabilities and unique arrangements of gifts, talents or resources. Everybody can step up.

Fourth Fact:
The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
Lesson to be Gained:
We need to make sure honking is encouraging. In groups where there is encouragement the production is much greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one’s heart or core values and encourage the heart and core of others) is the quality of honking we seek.

Fifth Fact:
When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out with another formation or catch up with the flock.
Lesson to be Gained:
If we have as much sense as geese, we will stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong. We all have a better chance of surviving and thriving.

I hope you have an amazing “V” that you fly with! If you don’t yet—then look up and find one.

The Best of Success to You,

Dr. Larry