Explain that a metaphor helps us compare two dissimilar objects or
ideas in order to understand them better, such as, “Life is like a lemon,
because it can be bitter or sweet.” Ask for other examples of metaphors.Step 4: Explain that you have chosen to compare leadership development to
gardening. Find out who gardens, so you can draw on their experience
during the discussion. Don’t tell what is below; try to elicit the answers
from them.
Step 5: Develop your metaphor, using the following objects:
Garden gloves: These items represent the preparation you must do
because you know that gardening and personal development require
“down and dirty” work. Bag of dirt: This represents the necessary foundation for growing
flowers, trees, and vegetables. Ask participants what an individual’s
foundation consists of. Answers include one’s experiences, education,
heredity and learned traits, and financial resources available for
development.
Seeds: These represent the potential that will grow if properly
nurtured. Fertilizer: This represents the boosts that help our development, such
as a good coach or mentor, a champion, or sabbatical time to work
on professional development.
Light and water: Just as we need to know how much light and water
our flowers will need, the leader needs to gauge the amount of
direction, guidance, and nourishment each employee needs. Shovel and spade: These items represent the tools needed to garden.
Ask what tools participants need for their development.
Pots: These represent the containers in which things grow. Ask
participants what kind of containers contain their growth. Watering can: This item represents the essential ingredient plants
need to grow. Ask what their most essential ingredient is that will
ensure their success.
The sun: This important element represents a manager who provides
guidance and nourishment.TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE^165