Why Great Leaders Don’t Always Fly at the Front

14 July 2025 Shweta Jhajharia's avatar by Shweta Jhajharia

Success in business is rarely the result of solo effort. It’s built on the strength of aligned teams, shared goals, and mutual support, much like the way geese fly in formation.

“The team played very well and I was delighted to help out with three goals.”
Ronaldinho

This quote from football legend Ronaldinho reminds us that even the most talented individuals thrive when they contribute to a team. His joy in assisting and celebrating collective success mirrors the kind of leadership and collaboration that drives high-performing businesses.

The Power of the V

leader formation

Geese flying in a V formation aren’t following instinct, they’re following strategy. Each bird flapping its wings creates uplift for the one behind, allowing the flock to fly up to 70% further than if each bird flew alone.

For business teams, this is a powerful metaphor. When your team is aligned and moving in the same direction, you gain momentum, reduce resistance and achieve more together.

Business Lessons from the Sky

Here’s what geese can teach us about building resilient, effective teams:

  • Shared direction matters. When everyone understands the vision and is committed to the same goals, progress accelerates.
  • Support amplifies success. Just as geese benefit from each other’s lift, your team thrives when members encourage and empower one another.
  • Check your formation. Regular alignment meetings and open communication ensure your team stays on course.

Leadership That Evolves

Geese rotate leadership. When the lead goose tires, it moves back and another takes its place. This ensures sustainability and shared responsibility.

In business, this means recognising that leadership isn’t about always being at the front. Sometimes, the most effective leaders are those who empower others, delegate wisely, and lead from within.

Compassionate Collaboration

When a goose is injured or unwell, two others drop out of formation to stay with it, offering protection and support until it recovers or passes. Only then do they rejoin the flock or find another group.

This is the essence of true teamwork, being there for each other, not just in moments of success, but in times of struggle. For business owners, fostering a culture of care and resilience can transform your workplace into a thriving community.

Look Up for Inspiration

You don’t need complex theories or expensive consultants to understand what makes a great team. Sometimes, you just need to look up. Whether it’s Ronaldinho celebrating his team’s goals or a flock of geese soaring across the sky, the message is clear:

Together, we rise.

Ready to Strengthen Your Team’s Formation?

If you’re looking to align your team, build stronger leadership, or create a culture of collaboration in your business, let’s talk.
Schedule a free strategy call today and discover how we can help your team fly further, together.

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Shweta Jhajharia's avatar

Shweta Jhajharia

Shweta Jhajharia, is widely recognized as an authority on Business Value Building, renowned for creating the unique 6M Model. Known for her impactful and intelligent approach, Shweta helps business leaders unlock their potential and attain meaningful, higher objectives. Through this realisation of potential and optimization of performance, leaders can substantially enhance... Read more
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