Survival: Africa vs. Business Jungle
Surviving the wilds of Africa and navigating the boardroom battlefield may seem like two different beasts—but really, it’s just different predators in different suits…
Make Supporting a client through a powerful transition—from a role where she operated in survival mode for far too long to a space where she can finally breathe and grow. As we unpacked her journey, a vivid picture emerged—one that reflects a troubling reality in some workplace cultures (though, thankfully, not all). It’s a reminder of how sustained pressure and lack of support can silently erode potential until the right environment offers room to thrive.it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
In Africa:
· The lion sees you as lunch.
· The snake doesn’t announce itself.
· Water is scarce and trust is scarcer.
· Move fast, stay alert, and never look like prey.
In Business:
· The lion wears a tailored blazer.
· The snake CCs your boss on that “friendly” email.
· Resources are tight, loyalties tighter.
· Smile sharp, read the room, and always bring a backup plan.
Why the Comparison Works:
· Both environments are unforgiving to the naive.
· Mistakes are expensive—sometimes terminal.
· Strength is respected, but strategy is what gets you fed.
· Camouflage (or "corporate diplomacy") is everything.
Survival Tips:
1. Know your predators. In the wild, it’s hyenas. In business, it’s passive-aggressives with power.
2. Stay hydrated. Coffee counts in business; in the savannah, not so much.
3. Read tracks. In Africa, they’re paw prints. In business, it’s meeting dynamics and WhatsApp chatter.
4. Don’t sleep where you eat. Especially if the new tarantula lurks in the dark.
Bottom Line:
Whether it’s the savannah or a shareholder meeting, survival belongs to the sharp-eyed, the thick-skinned, and those who know when to run—and when to pounce.
Comments welcomed, as always.
MC
