Lessons from Geese

As geese fly in “V” formation, each bird flaps its wings creating lift for the bird behind. In this particular formation, the flock adds 71% more to the flying range than if each bird flew alone.

Lesson: Social communities and fellowship are important because collectively, we achieve greater leverage.

Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it feels the drag and resistance of attempting to fly alone. It quickly realigns into the formation, taking advantage of the lifting power of the others in flight.

Lesson: While independence is important, traveling through life is easier with the assistance of friends.

When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation, allowing another goose to take over the lead.

Lesson: A true leader knows when to step back and let another shine.

Geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those in front to maintain speed and keep moving forward.

Lesson: Our “honking from behind” should always be encouraging and uplifting, rather than negative and unhelpful.

When a goose is ill, wounded or shot down, two geese fall out of formation and follow it down to protect and help. They stay with the fallen goose until it is either able to fly again or dies. At that time, they rejoin the formation.

Lesson: Following the example of geese, treating others with the same respect is paramount.