My first dog, and it’s been a journey. 
Owning a dog is all about leadership. 
Not the kind where you dominate and control, but the kind where you provide guidance, set boundaries, develop trust, and create a safe space. 

I've noticed that dog ownership mirrors team leadership in some pretty interesting ways.

Here are 4 lessons I’ve learned from Willow:

1️⃣ If she struggles, it’s because I haven’t set her up to succeed.
Puddles on the floor, upended tea mugs, jumping at visitors?
That’s on me.
Teach her how to do it right, remove hazards, don't blame her.
☝️ The parallel:
When my team struggled, it was usually a reflection of my leadership.
The guiderails I failed to provide, the signs I failed to notice.

2️⃣ Trust the Process. Resist Micromanagement.
Letting Willow roam off-lead was terrifying. But eventually, I had to put the recall training to the test, give her some freedom, and trust the process.
☝️ The parallel:
There were plenty of times I tried to control every move or outcome. I learned that micromanagement doesn’t enable; it only limits.

3️⃣ De-escalation. Always.
When Willow is hyper, pulling on the lead, or going nuts over a squirrel, my frustration level rises. But raising my voice will only egg her on. Calm energy is key to de-escalation.
☝️ The parallel:
I never understood the point of snapping at or adding pressure to people who are already stressed. Dealing with issues calmly is the only way to a constructive culture where errors are opportunities to grow, not reasons to cower.

4️⃣ Check your energy first
Willow is highly strung and won’t settle. Why? Because I’m stressed, which stresses her, which stresses me... and around it goes.
☝️ The parallel:
Your team knows when you’re off. They pick up on it instantly. Your energy is contagious, so check it before it ruins everyone’s day.

I’ve got a second dog.
The one lesson she's taught me?
Stubbornness and a cute face let's you get away with murder.

Bonus lesson:
Willow is almost 3. That's a quarter of her life.
A stark reminder not to miss a single walk, cuddle, or game of fetch because “you’re too busy.”