Nature’s CODE: A blueprint for leadership development
Life coach and author Linal Harris brings his unique leadership building presentation to Binghamton University.
On Wednesday, Feb. 4, as part of Black History Month at Binghamton, executive life coach, author, and entrepreneur Linal Harris spoke at ITC’s Engineering and Science Building rotunda, sharing insights on developing intuitive leadership in a fast-evolving world.
In his talk, “Nature’s Leadership Code,” Harris draws on his experiences trekking with gorillas and going on safari in Uganda and Rwanda to identify six instinctive leadership archetypes inspired by the animal world, and the lessons to be learned from how they lead, adapt, and endure. Harris believes that natural laws are foundational to learning and action, and that patterns, systems, and principles from nature can inform more effective leadership.
Harris’s CODE represents Clarity of purpose, Observation and awareness, Determination of action, and Empowerment. He compares these principles to behaviors in the animal kingdom, where animals understand their purpose, stay aware of their surroundings, act intentionally, and support their group. He suggests these “jungle” rules can be adapted to develop effective leaders in today’s business environment.
Harris’s presentation was interactive, and throughout the talk he asked questions of audience members and provided opportunities for those in attendance to share their thoughts, reflections, and aspirations. Audience members completed a short test to determine which of the six animal archetypes best fit; through guided exercises and a robust Q&A, Harris encouraged participants to identify their values and envision their future paths, using the archetypal persona as a model to understand their strengths.
Harris encouraged the audience to develop these core soft skills, emphasizing that communication, negotiation, and leadership are often more valuable than technical knowledge alone. He urged student leaders to adopt these practices now to better achieve their future goals.
“I want you to consider your life a decade from now,” Harris said. “Some of you may pursue a CEO track, senior leadership roles, or become change makers and activists. I encourage you to reflect on your aspirations and to see yourself there right now. And the reason why is that I’m speaking to that person. I’m speaking to that future version of you tonight.”