The Ant and the Elephant Self-Leadership

Author Name: Vince Posenti

As you know, our minds operate in two different spaces—conscious and unconscious thoughts. Our “ant” is the deliberate part of the mind—housed in our critical and analytical thoughts. Our “elephant,” in contrast, is the innate, automatic part of the mind—housed in emotions and memories, and even guides the body to perform its vital functions. While we tend to know our conscious—or ant—minds best, we often overlook the power of our unconscious elephantine minds. Unfortunately, when we do, we waste the wellspring of human potential.
Imagine a tiny ant on the back of a massive African elephant. No matter how hard that ant walks east, if the elephant it's perched on is traveling in the opposite direction, the ant will end up farther west than its starting point. Likewise, we will find ourselves straying from our goals if our conscious and unconscious minds are misaligned. What elephant-like aspects of our personalities prevent us from meeting challenges? How do our emotions get in the way of our ability to act and communicate effectively? What does it mean to truly commit to achieving a dream?
A good leader may realize they're stuck in elephantine habits that are keeping them from their goal—but a great leader does something about it. They confront the behaviors and routines that keep their unconscious stuck. They reframe deeply held beliefs, mindset, and facts to support their conscious efforts. A great leader conquers their hidden fears, pays their dues, and makes an emotional investment in their vision to show others the path to success.
The Ant and the Elephant is an entertaining parable to help you do just that. Its goal is to show how we can unite the powerful forces of conscious and unconscious thinking to reach our full potential more easily, in less time, and with more joy along the way.