eLeader May 2025
Four-legged reminders.
Let me introduce you to my most unpredictable, high-maintenance, and surprisingly insightful co-worker: Griffin.
Griffin is my 90-pound fur baby. At 10 years old, he’s pretty set in his ways and knows exactly what he wants. He spends about 85% of his day in a deep, snoring slumber…until the exact moment I’m about to jump on an important Zoom call. Suddenly, he’s wide awake, stretching dramatically, poking me with his nose for some pets, scratching at the door to go out, or (his favorite) barking incessantly at one of the many invisible threats outside. He also seems to have a built-in clock because the moment the workday starts winding down, he’s nudging me for attention (and dinner).
I know I’m not the only pet owner with a “home office co-worker” like this. And while Griffin’s interruptions can sometimes feel like productivity killers, over my many years of working remotely, I’ve come to realize he’s not a distraction—he’s a leadership coach in disguise. Here are three unexpected leadership lessons my dog has taught me.
Great Leaders Master Adaptability
Griffin doesn’t care about my to-do list—his needs are non-negotiable. He demands flexibility, and in doing so, reminds me that adaptability isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential. A McKinsey study found that 70% of transformation and change efforts fail due to employee resistance and a lack of leadership adaptability. The best leaders don’t resist change; they’re ready to pivot when needed. Griffin keeps me on my toes, and I’m better for it.
Forced Breaks Boost Performance
That quick three-minute walk? Somehow, Griffin always knows when a break for fresh air is needed most. Research from the University of Illinois shows that short breaks can improve focus and creativity by up to 40%. I’m someone who likes to hunker down and grind, and especially in fast-paced, high-growth environments, this hustle mentality is encouraged and celebrated. But Griffin acts like a built-in accountability coach, pulling me away from my screen for necessary breaks. My body and mind are better off because of it.
Direct Communication Wins
Griffin is a master communicator. When he stands by the door and herds me around, I know he wants a walk. When he gently grabs my hand and leads me to the pantry, he’s definitely asking for a snack. His barks, tail wags, and puppy-dog stares are crystal clear. He reminds me daily that clarity and consistency are crucial in communication—especially to set clear expectations or build trust in relationships.
They say dogs are man’s best friend, but mine turned out to also be an unexpected leadership coach. He’s rewritten my work-from-home playbook—from strategic mental breaks to radical candor—and reminds me what great leadership is. Who knew secrets for success weren’t in the corner office, but laying at my feet waiting patiently for a belly rub.
Who (or what) pulls you out of work mode, and how has that unexpectedly helped you lead better? When was the last time an interruption led to a breakthrough idea or a needed reset? How can you build more "Griffin moments" into your day?
LEADERSHIP & CULTURE
From Idea to Buy-In: Mastering Executive Persuasion 🗣️
Register here for free to attend May 7
You’ve got a great idea—but how do you get senior leaders to listen, buy in, and take action?
Join this virtual workshop on May 7 to learn how to pitch your ideas with confidence and clarity using the WHAC Method—a powerful framework that helps you say less and get more. Explore the essentials of storytelling, executive presence, influence, persuasion, and public speaking so your ideas don’t just get heard, they get results.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Inc. Small Business Week: Shark Tank 🦈
Register here to attend May 5-9
Presented by Inc., this exclusive series unites Shark Tank investors — Daymond John, Kevin O’Leary, Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, and Daniel Lubetzky — to reveal their insights on growing businesses in uncertain times.
Gain behind-the-scenes access to the proven strategies these iconic entrepreneurs used to build billion-dollar brands. From creating a high-performing company culture and attracting game-changing investment, to leveraging AI, mastering social marketing, and leading with clarity and purpose — this is your chance to discover the exact playbooks that turned bold visions into household names.
INNOVATION
Generative AI Basics 💻
Register here for free to attend May 12
Join General Assembly for a free virtual workshop on May 12 and explore the transformative potential of generative AI. Discover best practices for writing effective prompts, learn how to use AI tools responsibly, and gain tangible insights you can apply right away. Plus, watch a live expert demo of ChatGPT in action and see how it can help you boost productivity at work and at home.
PERSONAL GROWTH
Mindspring 🧠
Access more free webinars here
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to prioritize your well-being. Check out these free upcoming webinars from Mindspring to support your wellness and personal growth:
Understanding Compassion Fatigue & Burnout—May 6 (Register here)
Work Stress and Burnout—May 13 (Register here)
What is Emotional Intelligence?—May 15 (Register here)