Learn From Donkeys How to Climb the Corporate Ladder

Donkeys are one of the most industrious animals. They are hardworking, resilient and far more intelligent than they get credit for.Humans were transitioning from their hunter-gatherer ways, to farming and animal domestication, when they caught on to the fact. Around 7,000 years ago, in Africa, we tamed and selectively bred donkeys for use.These beloved equines have since come to be a placeholder for stubbornness and simplicity. However, there’s much more to donkeys than we are able to appreciate.One such quality is their adaptability, which wasn’t lost on Tansu Yegen. The social media personality recently shared a video that shows donkeys ingeniously climbing staircases using the switchback technique.

Donkeys who understand physics know the easiest way to climb a steep staircase is to cross-climb. 🫏

pic.twitter.com/2nOC1F6nEx

— Tansu Yegen (@TansuYegen) October 18, 2024

Also called zig-zagging, it involves placing one foot on a step while the other foot on the step below. This diagonal placement allows donkeys to climb the stairs more efficiently.By “cross-climbing”, as Yegen described it, donkeys are able to distribute their weight more evenly and avoid losing their footing. The technique requires less energy compared to a straight-up ascent.Their ability to traverse mountainous terrain with seeming ease is a lesson in navigating the corporate ladder. Here are some lessons we can learn from donkeys to climb it:Adapting: Just like donkeys worked out a way to climb steep staircases efficiently, professionals with ambitions must also stay flexible. Be ready to change your strategies to meet the ever-changing demands of the workplace.Strategising: Before setting off on a career journey, it's wise to have a solid plan in place. In this metaphor, it can mean having a clear aim, a roadmap to reach it and a backup plan for any unexpected bumps along the way.Networking: Donkeys rely on the support of their herd. So can you. Fostering connections with our colleagues and mentors can aside from, providing support and guidance, also open doors to new opportunities.Learning: Corporate professionals should must constantly work on expanding their skills and knowledge. This could be through training, courses, or even seeking mentorship.