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It often seems that the only path to success is ruthless competition. Entrepreneurs are often warned about the so-called “wolf culture”, in which the major emphasis is on fierce competition and self-interest. This attitude fosters an environment in which success is viewed as incompatible with compassion and in which many consider that in order to win, others must lose. But is this the only approach to succeed in business?
On Inner Mountain Foundationwe consider there is one other path that pulls inspiration from the quiet power and adaptability of water. Unlike the prevailing “wolf culture,” which embraces a zero-sum game, our approach advocates a culture of service to others, where success is measured not by the failure of competitors, but by the collective flourishing of all those involved.
“Way of the Wolf” vs. “Way of Water”
To illustrate these two contrasting approaches, I often use the metaphors of wolves and water. The the way of the wolf is about striving to be the sole winner, where success is achieved at the expense of others. This uncompromising “your loss is my gain” mentality creates an environment in which corporations compete fiercely, often resulting in short-term victories but long-term instability.
However, this constant competition comes at a price. When corporations focus on outsmarting each other, they create an unsustainable environment where success is fleeting and built on the suffering of others. There is at all times a greater wolf able to kill the one that got here before it, perpetuating the cycle of conflict and instability.
In contrast, approach to water offers a more balanced and satisfying approach. Water – through its ability to adapt, nourish and sustain life – embodies qualities that may transform the business landscape. Using the way of water, we focus on building environments that foster collective growth and are places where each participant can thrive without undermining others.
Real world example
Consider a easy example: a gas station opens on the corner of a busy street and attracts customers and thrives. A wolf-like entrepreneur could see this success and open a competing gas station across the street, hoping to capture the market. Other gas stations soon followed suit, resulting in fierce competition. Ultimately, only the largest gas station will remain, but the street will lose its vitality because businesses will focus solely on outdoing each other.
Now imagine that as a substitute of one other gas station, one other entrepreneur opened a cafe next to the original station. The addition brings much more people to the area, who now stop for each gas and coffee. Inspired by this success, others open a food market, a boutique, or possibly even a small playground. The street is transformed into a thriving ecosystem where each business supports the others, creating a vibrant community that advantages everyone involved.
“Waterway” in practice
Waterway principles aren’t just theoretical – they may be applied to every aspect of your business. For example at DHGATE Groupwe have upheld these values since our founding 20 years ago, enabling micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and entrepreneurs to participate in global trade. By creating value for all stakeholders, quite than simply maximizing our profits, we have built a sustainable business model that advantages our partners and customers.
These values also underpin The Inner Mountain Foundation, the international women’s empowerment organization that I founded last yr. Our community is built on the principles of nurturing, support and collective growth – much like the ecosystem in the gas station example. We focus on providing our members with the resources to grow, give back and create a sustainable, mutually useful environment.
Build for good, not for scale
At its core, the water approach is about building for good, not only for scale. It’s about creating a business culture that prioritizes well-being, collaboration and long-term sustainability, not short-term profits. When we nurture others, we receive nourishment in return, creating a cycle of growth and flourishing that advantages everyone involved.
As founders and leaders, we must adopt sustainable business practices. The Way of Water offers an ethical and sustainable solution to the challenges we face in the business world. By taking this approach, we are able to contribute to a more sustainable global society where success is defined not by the failure of others, but by the collective flourishing of all.
The Way of Water is not only a metaphor – it is a tenet that may transform the way we do business, resulting in more sustainable and fulfilling outcomes for all.