Being a member of Forbes Coaches Council, the invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches contributors, our founder Michele Damone spoke about equine-assisted coaching fo C-suite executive on Forbes. We decided to update that article appeared on the prestigious business-centered magazine to further discuss the theme that will also be soon gathered in the upcoming book Leadership Coaching with Horses The Power of Psychometrics and Biofeedback.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, C-suite executives face immense pressure to deliver. Shareholders expect results, employees seek direction, and innovation is key to survival. Amid this, one crucial aspect of leadership often goes unnoticed: authenticity.
Authentic leadership, defined by transparency, emotional intelligence, and genuine connections, is no longer just a "soft skill" but a strategic necessity. Leaders who embody authenticity foster trust, collaboration, and are better equipped to handle complex challenges. However, developing authentic leadership can be challenging, as traditional methods of self-reflection and peer feedback are often skewed by cognitive biases and subjectivity.
This is where equine-assisted leadership coaching comes into play—a unique method where horses, through their sensory abilities, offer direct feedback on an executive’s emotional state and leadership approach. Let’s explore how this coaching works and assess if it's suitable for you.
Horses as Biofeedback Tools
Horses, being prey animals, are incredibly sensitive to their surroundings. Unlike humans, who consciously interpret situations, horses instinctively respond to energetic cues like body language and emotional state. This creates a powerful "mirror effect" for leaders: if a leader projects hidden anxieties or forced confidence, the horse may react hesitantly. However, a calm and present leader will notice the horse engaging positively.
This biofeedback offers insights often missed by traditional methods. Imagine a CEO used to commanding a boardroom trying to gain the trust of a 1,000-pound horse—every emotion and action is mirrored in the horse’s behavior. This feedback helps leaders confront their blind spots and better understand how their emotions and actions influence others.
Beyond Feedback: A Transformative Experience
Equine-assisted coaching goes beyond feedback—it’s action-oriented. As leaders attempt to connect and build trust with the horse, they receive real-time feedback on their leadership style, communication, and emotional state. This hands-on learning promotes self-awareness and provides leaders with a space to experiment with different approaches.
Moreover, the physical nature of working with horses fosters a mind-body connection essential for authentic leadership. Leaders learn to regulate their breath, posture, and presence, gaining tools they can carry back into their professional environments.
The Impact of Authenticity
The benefits of authentic leadership extend far beyond personal growth. Leaders who demonstrate genuine confidence and presence inspire trust in their teams, foster collaboration, and handle challenging conversations with empathy. Authenticity enhances relationships with stakeholders and creates an environment where innovation thrives. Horses, indifferent to titles or constructed personas, offer unfiltered reality—a valuable reminder in a world obsessed with appearances.
Is Equine-Assisted Leadership Coaching Right for You?
Not everyone is suited for equine-assisted coaching, but you might be a good fit if:
You Embrace Experiential LearningThis method is immersive and hands-on. If you enjoy learning through experience and are willing to step out of your comfort zone, equine-assisted coaching could be ideal.
You Value Honest FeedbackHorses offer immediate, unbiased feedback based on your behavior and emotional state. If you appreciate direct feedback, this method can provide insights beyond traditional coaching.
You Seek Authentic ConnectionsIf building genuine, transparent relationships is important to you, equine-assisted coaching helps enhance these skills by fostering self-awareness and showing how your actions impact others.
You’re Ready to Face Blind SpotsThis coaching reveals hidden anxieties and behaviors you might not be aware of. If you’re prepared to confront these challenges, it can help you grow significantly as a leader.
Who Might Not Benefit from Equine-Assisted Coaching?
While effective for many, this method isn’t for everyone. Consider these factors:
Discomfort with Animals: If you’re uncomfortable around horses, this might not be the right approach.
Preference for Structured Learning:Â If you prefer highly structured environments, the dynamic nature of equine-assisted coaching may not suit your style.
Resistance to Feedback:Â If you struggle with receiving direct feedback, this method might not be effective for you.
In a business world focused on titles and power dynamics, equine-assisted coaching offers a refreshing alternative for executives looking to embrace authentic leadership. Consider the factors above when deciding if this unique method is right for you.
Ready to become a better and more confident leader?
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