In picture 1, the symbol of two elephants in a black tower is a metaphor for the foreign HQ, sometimes pushing in another direction than the local plant desires. This story of a powerful HQ pushing against the local plant was repeated in many conversations and explained the slow progress in the team.
In picture 2, you can see what happened to the animal as the day went by: the heavy barrier transformed into one elephant with green on its back – symbolising a fruitful relationship with the HQ.
And on the second day, what was once a dark threat, turned into a domesticated animal. This development illustrated how easy our perceptions can paralyse our actions. Fortunately, we can change your perceptions and way of judging people – or HQs. When the leadership team realised that they could influence the situation – and domesticate the wild elephants, they were able to see the obstacle as an asset and move ahead.
Sometimes the challenges we face, appear to be wild and dangerous tigers but in fact they are merely sweet, playful kittens... Key learning from a workshop in Paris.