Journey Into a World Where Leadership Meets Nature

There are so many leadership and personal development programs available in the world today. One innovative approach to developing leadership skills, which can create a profound impact, is utilising a unique methodology called horse-assisted learning.

Pia Ault, an expert and coach in this field, leverages horse wisdom to enhance leadership skills and support individuals and teams in their transformation. She describes how partnering with horses can transform how individuals and teams approach growth, trust, and collaboration.

She explains, “Equine-facilitated coaching is a process where horses become part of the coaching experience.”

Horses are more than just majestic creatures: their sensitivity makes them powerful mirrors, offering immediate feedback in the way that they behave with us about our own behaviours, intentions, and inner states.

Why Horses?

Pia shares, “Horses are incredibly intuitive animals. They pick up on energy, emotions, and nonverbal cues in ways that humans sometimes can’t.”

“When clients interact with horses during a coaching session, they often gain insights into their behaviour, emotions, and leadership style.” 

This understanding is based on being aware that the horse responds uniquely to the client’s communication (tone, energy, maybe some commonly used words) and the client becoming aware of how the horse behaves in response to them and what the horse’s behaviour potentially means about themselves.

For example, if the horse is inquisitive about the coachee, the coachee can potentially make up meanings about the horse's response, which might be that they - themselves as the coachee - are open, accepting and curious.

The Dynamics of Human-Equine Interaction

The human-equine dynamic creates a space for exploration and growth. Unlike traditional coaching methods, working with horses bypasses intellectual reasoning and taps into deeper emotional and somatic experiences.

Through facilitated exercises, participants gain insights into:

• Communication: Horses respond to clarity and consistency, teaching us how to express ourselves effectively.
• Trust: Building a connection with a 500 kilogram animal requires authenticity and patience, which becomes invaluable lessons for fostering trust in relationships.
• Leadership: Horses naturally follow confident, empathetic leaders, so working with horses can reveal how our presence, confidence and energy influence those we lead.

Adding Value and Awareness Through Equine-Assisted Coaching

Working with horses fosters a heightened sense of self-awareness. Leaders often discover the subtle ways their attitudes, energy, and body language influence others.

For instance, a leader’s ability to remain calm and present directly impacts how a horse responds, mirroring how teams react to their leadership style. These interactions deepen emotional intelligence and build resilience - critical traits for effective leadership.

The process encourages leaders to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. Horses do not respond to hierarchical titles or forced authority; they demand genuine connection and mutual respect. This interaction teaches leaders to lead from a place of empathy and integrity, creating a more inclusive and trusting environment for their teams.

Connecting with Nature and Animals for Greater Understanding

Equine-assisted learning reminds us of the profound lessons nature can teach us about leadership, trust, and connection with ourselves. Horses, with their authenticity and presence, invite us to slow down, tune in, and grow in ways that are both powerful and unexpected.

And it’s not just horses that can teach us valuable lessons - every animal has the potential to be a role model for leadership development. Animals embody traits like adaptability, focus, teamwork, resilience and more. Observing or interacting with them can inspire us to reflect on our own behaviours and mindset.

Even if you don’t have access to animals, the natural world offers a profound connection to centuries of wisdom and intuition. Take time to immerse yourself in nature: walk on the beach, up mountains, through valleys, or experience the beauty of snow, sunshine and rain. Allow yourself to truly connect with your surroundings and your inner self and discover the wisdom nature holds for us.

By integrating the wisdom of horses and nature into leadership development, we unlock unique opportunities for growth that are grounded in authenticity, presence, and resilience. These lessons not only enrich our professional lives, they also create a ripple effect of positive change in our personal relationships and communities.

Be Empowered.

Jeanine and Marie Empower World Co-founders

If you’re curious about how these incredible animals can unlock your potential, listen to our full conversation with Pia Ault and Marie Quigley here.

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