Forest Networks

Forests are networks that require every little microorganism to work perfectly. The mushrooms under the ground created a fungal network that communicates with the roots of the trees. The biggest and busiest trees in the forest are known as “mother trees,” and they pass CO2 down to the fungal networks, which pass it on to other trees and seedlings to survive. Whether you’re the biggest tree in the forest or the smallest, mushroom, you’re important to the network’s survival. Companies are similar, and a good leader will recognize that. Founders need to take care of the mother trees and the small mushrooms — both are equally important.

Think of who your mother trees might be — the people in your life giving resources for survival, like investors, board members and more. Then think of those who might be your ‘fungal network’ — these are your employees doing the challenging groundwork that brings your vision to life. Write out both here so you can see how your network works. All of these elements are important to your company’s success.