Do you think like a Chicken or an Eagle?
Recently, I was introduced to a fable ‘The Eagle Who Thought He Was A Chicken’ - a metaphor to thinking like an eagle versus a chicken, highlighting the importance of recogniSing our true potential, even if it means stepping out of our comfort zones.
In summary this eagle lived, was raised and brought up amongst chickens, he didn’t know any different. One day somebody took an interest and wanted him to reach his true potential as an eagle ‘because he was an eagle’. The eagle who thought he was a chicken was fearful, unaware of his true identity and preferred to go back to his comfort zone and live among the chickens. However, the person helping the eagle didn’t give up and continued to provide opportunities to take that leap, and one day he eventually did - he spread his wings and flew.
This fable has various interpretations and applications for individuals.
The eagle raised among chickens symbolises someone who may not realise their full capabilities or potential because they've been conditioned to think and behave in a certain way, confined within a limited perspective. It's a reminder that sometimes we might be underestimating ourselves, not realizing the extent of our abilities or the heights we could reach if we embraced our true nature.
The choice between thinking like an eagle or a chicken can also reflect our approach to challenges and opportunities. Some may prefer the familiar, the comfort of routine and predictability (akin to the chicken), while others might be more inclined to take risks, seek new challenges, and aim for greater heights (similar to the eagle).
Professor Terry Karl in her address to the graduating Class of 2004 at Stanford University, says that the chicken story comes to mind every time there is a choice between taking an easy path or making a trail where there is no road.
My takeaway from the story was twofold.
Firstly, there is the person that mentored the chicken to become an eagle. The mentor's role in this fable is significant. It emphasizes the impact of guidance and encouragement from others who see our potential, even when we don't. It speaks to the importance of having someone in our lives who believes in us, who sees our capabilities, and who encourages us to spread our wings and soar.
Secondly, irrespective of whether you choose to think like an eagle or a chicken, I think it is okay to choose what you want to choose. We are all individuals, and some people enjoy familiarity, creature comforts compared to others who like to lead and take on new challenges and opportunities.
I really like Karl’s definition that to be an eagle means ‘raising the bar not lowering it’. This notion is a call to push ourselves, to aim higher, and to not settle for mediocrity. It encourages us to continually strive for improvement, growth, and excellence in whatever we do.
So whatever direction you are headed I would encourage you to think more like an eagle than a chicken particularly in our roles as Education EAs. A role that demands leadership, problem-solving, and proactive thinking, embodying the qualities of an eagle. Our schools rely on us for our leadership, vision, and a willingness to embrace new challenges—can be especially important. It's also about aspiring to be the best version of ourselves, pursuing our dreams, and living a purpose-driven life.
The influence of our circle is also crucial – the people you choose who influence our thoughts and behaviours. Surrounding ourselves with people who support, encourage, and inspire us to reach for the skies, just like eagles, can significantly impact our mindset and actions.
As Education EAs let's think outside our sometimes-confined boxes, be open to embracing our potential, to new possibilities, strive for growth, and not be afraid to soar high - raise the bar to be more like eagles!
If you’re feeling a bit isolated in your role, and would like to benefit from the support, advice and learnings of a group of likeminded Education Administrative Professionals working for Executive Senior Leadership Teams in schools - consider joining our community - a national network dedicated solely to supporting Education EAs!
