When I tell people about Little Torch, the first thing I typically hear is — “Cool, but why did you call it that?”. And yes, I certainly could have done something more straight forward like using my name, but that approach didn’t feel right to me. So let’s get into it.
Each year I spend at least a week in the West Texas desert. During this time I plan intentionally and create space in my head for new ideas. I sharpen the vision I have for my life and further define my purpose in the world. This intentional and focused time ultimately led me down this path of helping leaders grow and thrive.
One of the things I’ve always been enamored by during my desert hikes is the Ocotillo. Ocotillos are fascinating, beautiful, and most importantly, resilient plants. They may look dormant at times, but each year when the spring rains come, fiery red blooms burst out of the tip of each of their branches. These red flowers stand-out against the desert landscape like little torches (which, coincidentally, is what Ocotillo means).
The more I learned about and pondered the Ocotillo, the more I began to see how leaders can embody their strengths to create a transformative leadership journey, cultivating an environment where team members flourish, overcome obstacles, and achieve remarkable results.
But let’s go a little further—what is so special about this plant? (SO special, in fact, that I actually have a small tattoo of it on my wrist).
What we, as leaders, can learn from the Ocotillo:
Resilience
Water is scarce and the sun beats relentlessly, but ocotillos stand tall, defying the odds. Ocotillos remind me of the strength can be found in the face of adversity—we can embody their spirt of perseverance, and learn to thrive even in the harshest of environments.
Adaptability
Ocotillos shed their leaves and conserve energy during drought, and then burst out with new life when conditions improve. Similarly, as leaders, we must embrace adaptability. The business landscape is ever-evolving, and the ability to pivot, embrace change, and encourage our teams to do the same is crucial.
Connection
The desert ecosystem thrives on interconnectedness, where plants, animals, and their habitats depend on each another. Similarly, teamwork is most effective when there is a strong sense of connection within a team. Encourage collaboration, open communication, and the building of strong relationships. Emphasize the importance of supporting one another, sharing knowledge, and leveraging individual strengths to achieve shared objectives. By fostering a sense of connection within our teams, we create an environment where trust, cooperation, and collective success thrive.
Fun Fact!: Hummingbirds and ocotillos co-evolved together!
Radiance
Ocotillos radiate vibrant blooms that attract hummingbirds and other creatures to its nectar. Similarly, you have the power to inspire your teams to shine. Bring positive energy into your leadership approach to inspire those around you to bring their best selves to the table. Show appreciation for your team members’ contributions and celebrate their successes, ensuring that their individual brilliance is recognized and nurtured as well. Your radiance can ignite a spark within each team member, lighting the way for their potential.
Growth
Just as the ocotillo plant reaches high toward the sky, teams can strive for continuous growth and development. Encourage your team members to embrace personal and professional growth opportunities. Create space for them to explore their strengths, take on new challenges, expand their skills, and learn from their failures. When failure is met with empathy, understanding, and support, it fosters resilience, innovation, and a culture of continuous improvement. By nurturing a growth mindset within your teams, you empower them to reach their full potential and achieve extraordinary results.
To wrap up, I love these beautiful and resilient guardians of the desert, and I am confident that there is much we can learn from them if we simply listen, reflect and soak in their wonderful qualities.
