3 Leadership Lessons from the World of Rowing

As part of a leadership programme this week we took a group of executives to learn to row.

Some were excited, some were sceptical, all were hoping they wouldn't fall in.

Thankfully, no one did.

In the end, everyone loved the experience and drew some valuable insights from their time in a boat.

1. New challenges quickly bring new insights
Taking on a new challenge can be liberating.  Rowing was a fresh experience for everyone and by focusing on the opportunity to learn something new rather than resisting the unknown, they experienced a greater sense of achievement and confidence building than would ever be possible during an afternoon working on familiar aspects of their jobs.  Time well spent, everyone agreed.

2. Change is inevitable - Embrace it for success
We asked participants to take their seat in a racing boat, on a choppy river in windy conditions, and work together as a team to master a very technical sport.  They had to concentrate hard, think on their feet, adapt to ever changing conditions and communicate clearly.  All of which they did, resulting in everyone feeling suitably impressed with their ability to stay focused and pull together despite being placed in an unfamiliar and uncertain environment.  It was impressive to see people flourish so quickly in these new surroundings.

3. Focused team performance can create incredible results
The event included a team race.  Initially this idea sparked a round of 'I'm not sure I'm fit enough for that' and 'I wouldn't want to let anyone down' type responses.  Generally, a little bit of reluctance.  In fact, once they got going, everyone far exceeded their expectations and interestingly also all improved on their performance in a similar but individual part of the programme earlier in the day.

The key was undoubtedly the team element.  Supporting each other in a shared goal with mutual respect and consideration created focused individuals and slick and efficient team performance.  And a fantastically exciting race.

All in all a great experience for everyone, the benefits of which will last for years to come, as will the key learnings as they filter through respective teams back in the office.