Tortoise or Hare?

A business owner recently expressed frustration to me about his efforts to build his brand and the uncertainty over whether or not it’s working. He’s doing all the right things but seems to him to be taking forever.

Because it’s a great source for lessons about organizational behavior, Survivor came to mind. I have watched every episode of every season since the beginning except for two (missed one when moving from Atlanta to Baton Rouge and one when Hurricane Lili knocked our power out). And, as a student of organizational behavior, I absolutely love the show and seeing leadership, conflict, diversity, teamwork, negotiation, communication, power, strategy, and more happen in a microcosm.

Interestingly, the winner of Survivor usually plays below the radar for a good part of the season. They are building their foundation, planting seeds, establishing their brand and we the viewers don’t really know too much about them until late in the game. Very often, players that come out of the gate blowing and going, crash and burn early (e.g., Brad Culpepper this season!).

In the business world, a lucky few do have overnight success. But for the rest it requires showing up everyday, doing good work, treating others with respect, and creating those conditions to support future prosperity.

Steady like the tortoise.

Would love to know your thoughts on what it takes to see success.