The Lion & The Mouse

Once upon a time, a mighty lion was taking a nap in the forest. While he was sleeping, a tiny mouse ran across his nose, waking him up. Furious at being disturbed, the lion caught the mouse with his paws and was about to eat him. The mouse, trembling with fear, begged the lion to spare his life, promising to repay the favour someday.

The lion laughed at the mouse’s plea but eventually let him go, although, the lion was not convinced that the tiny mouse can ever be of any help to him, he being a mighty lion.

Several days later, the lion was caught in a hunter’s trap. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t break free from the trap. Hearing the lion’s roar, the mouse rushed to the scene and began to gnaw at the ropes with his tiny teeth. After much effort, the mouse was able to free the lion.

In your life and work also, you may come to believe and think of yourself as a lion, who is all powerful, holding the most important role, both at home and at work. And it is natural to feel so, especially if you have been successful. However, as you enjoy your success, importance and power in life, you must remember that there may come a time when your life may depend on the “mouse” – those that you may feel can never be of much use to you. And this may be the biggest mistake of your life.

Great leaders don’t lose their humility as they become successful. They understand that they are required to play different roles at different times. Sometimes they are a lion and sometimes a mouse. They are always grateful for the help of others who have made them successful. They also know that they will continue to need the help of others as they continue pursuing their passion and ambition. At the same time, they are always ready help others in need (be a mouse).

We live in an interdependent world and gratitude is a critical leadership skill needed to succeed in life.