What is behind the name “The Business Wolff”?  The obvious reason: my maiden name is Wolff.  The not-so-obvious reason is that I truly believe we would all be wise to emulate the traits of wolves in our lives and business. 

When we think of wolves, we tend to picture scary Grimm’s fairy tales, werewolves, and slaughtered sheep. In actuality, wolves are highly intelligent and sensitive, with some amazing attributes you might not be aware of. 

They are collaborative and social

Wolves instinctively need to be part of something bigger than themselves – their packs.  Like humans, they devote themselves to their families and rely on cooperation to survive.  They collectively look after the pups with patience, care, and devotion, to ensure that they grow up to be beneficial additions to the pack. In doing so, they take on different roles as playmates, teachers, or providers. They care for their injured. They rely on the experience of the older wolves to hunt or win territorial disputes. They learn from each other. They need one another. 

They are excellent communicators

Wolves have complex communication skills. They communicate frequently to maintain social stability, set rules, reinforce bonds, and express their needs and emotions. They are careful listeners, and can hear other wolves howling up to ten miles away. They are also extremely sensitive, using verbal communication, an elaborate array of body language, and even the chemistry of scent to express themselves. Communication is crucial to keep their family units functioning. 

They are playful

Wolves are very emotional animals, demonstrating excitement, affection, aggression, empathy, guilt, humor, and many other social attributes that humans can recognize. Through play, they learn to release pent-up energy, sharpen their physical skills and reinforce social bonds. The family that plays together, stays together. 

These are all attributes that I hope to bring to my life and business. I want to approach projects with community in mind, always asking myself if I am bringing value, rather than worrying about what I can get. I want to learn to listen more carefully and communicate more clearly. And always remember to play, never taking life too seriously. 

If you are looking for more information about wolves, I have enjoyed the presentations at www.livingwithwolves.com