Survival of the Friendliest: Why being more dog could help you thrive

So, I was watching a Netflix documentary about dogs last night (I know, shocker—me watching something about dogs). And the theory of ‘survival of the friendliest’ got me thinking. Generally, I always try to be more dog in life anyway—enjoy food and eat with gusto, appreciate good weather, go for a walk, and last but not least, if you see a fun-looking body of water, jump in it! But all that aside, and in seriousness, I think there’s something in this ‘survival of the friendliest’ bit when it comes to modern life.

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, we often hear about the need for agility, innovation, and productivity. People also yack on about authenticity, then behave in a way that generally isn’t always very authentic—or authentic with an agenda, which I believe kinda diminishes the point. As we all push harder for results, there’s a growing undercurrent of dysfunction and burnout. The root cause? A fundamental disconnect between the way we work and what we, as humans, truly need: genuine emotional connection.

The Corporate Disconnect

In a tough economic climate, there’s more pressure than ever to perform and a desperation to outrun the competition. While these things are undoubtedly important, they often overshadow the human element of business. The relentless focus on performance and efficiency can make people feel like cogs in a machine rather than valued individuals. And the competition to be top dog can create some weird dynamics between peers. This disconnect can lead to a lack of trust, reduced collaboration, and ultimately, burnout. Research by the World Health Organisation found that burnout has become a significant occupational hazard, leading to decreased productivity and increased turnover rates.

The Power of Emotional Connection

As humans, we’re wired for connection. Emotional bonds aren’t just a nice-to-have; they’re essential for our well-being. According to a study by Gallup, people who feel connected to their colleagues are more engaged and more likely to stick around. When we feel genuinely connected to others, we’re more engaged, more resilient, and more motivated. In leadership and networking, these connections foster a sense of belonging and purpose, driving both individual and collective success.

So why, then, have I experienced so many frenemies and one-dimensional interactions? Even in groups designed to foster networking and collaboration, I often get the sense of judgment or just that people are holding back and not being real.

Survival of the Friendliest

The idea of ‘survival of the friendliest’ isn’t just about being nice for the sake of it. It’s about recognising that genuine relationships—those built on trust, empathy, and mutual support—are what truly allow us to thrive. As leaders, we should be cultivating these connections, not just with our teams but within our broader networks.

The old-school approach to leadership, where competition and assertiveness are seen as the only ways to get ahead, is wearing thin. People are burning out not just because of the workload, but because they’re navigating environments where they can’t be themselves, where there’s a lack of real connection. It’s exhausting, and it’s unsustainable.

In contrast, leaders who prioritise emotional connection—who see their peers and colleagues as more than just business contacts—are fostering environments where people feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and grow. These leaders aren’t just surviving; they’re thriving, and they’re taking their teams with them.

The Future of Networking and Leadership

As we look to the future, it’s clear that the most successful leaders won’t just be the ones who can hit targets or close deals. They’ll be the ones who can build and nurture genuine relationships. It’s about being real, being vulnerable, and being willing to connect on a human level.

So, next time you’re in a meeting or a networking event, try being more dog. Engage with gusto, appreciate the moment, and don’t be afraid to jump in and make a real connection. It might just be the key to not only surviving but thriving in this fast-paced world.

And Finally….

If ‘being more dog’—connecting with gusto and leading with heart—resonates with you, let’s chat. Whether you’re facing challenges or just want more joy and clarity in your work, I’m here to help.

Jump in and get in touch. Let’s see how we can work together to thrive through genuine connection.