Splashing Kindness
A Farmer and His Buffalo
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
- Theodore Roosevelt
Splashing Kindness
Chasing Influence: Transformational Coaching to Build Champions for Life
In some parts of the world, non-mechanical farming methods are still the norm. On a particularly hot day, a Thai farmer was plowing his rice paddy with his loyal water buffalo—a relationship built on mutual benefit. The farmer guided the animal through the field, their movements synchronized, their labor shared.
But then, without warning, the water buffalo stopped. Exhausted by the heat and the strain, it wouldn’t take another step. The farmer, unfazed, immediately jumped off the plow. With deliberate care, he scooped up cool water and began splashing it over the animal, his hands moving gently over its sides. The buffalo let out a deep breath, its body relaxing as the refreshing water did its work. For a moment, neither plowed nor pulled—they simply rested together in the moment.
After a short break, rejuvenated by the farmer splashing some kindness, the buffalo was once again ready to push forward. The farmer climbed back onto his plow, and the two resumed their work.
Leonard Pellicer shared a version of this simple but powerful story in his book Caring Enough to Lead. Pellicer reminds us that true leadership is not just about progress; it’s about knowing when to pause and care for those who help drive the mission forward.
On our teams, we often push ourselves and others toward the goal, focusing on productivity, efficiency, and results. But what happens when our teams—our “water buffalos”—get worn out? Do we press forward, ignoring their fatigue? Or do we recognize the signs, step in, and provide the encouragement, rest, and support they need to continue?
The best leaders understand that kindness is not a weakness—it’s a strength. It fosters trust, loyalty, and a culture where people feel valued. Research shows that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can create ripple effects of motivation and engagement within a team. Whether it’s a simple “thank you,” a listening ear, or an unexpected break to recharge, these moments matter.
It is Random Acts of Kindness Day this Tuesday. This is a great reminder that care and kindness do not need to be an afterthought—it should be a habit. This week, find a way to “splash water” on someone in your life this week.
Recognize a hardworking team member who might be struggling.
Surprise someone with a handwritten note of appreciation.
Offer to take something off a teammate’s plate to lighten their load.
Give someone a small gift, a gift card, coffee, or a treat of somekind.
Leading with the heart isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about small, intentional acts that show people they matter. This week, take the time to lead with empathy, care for your team, and practice the kind of leadership that ensures no one is left behind in the field. It’s not just about the work—it’s about the people doing the work.
Who needs a little kindness from you today?
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”
– Simon Sinek
Connecting this quote to the story. The Thai farmer exemplifies true leadership by prioritizing the well-being of his water buffalo, recognizing that caring for those who support the work leads to sustained success.
Chasing Influence tip: Small acts of care create lasting trust and loyalty.
If you enjoyed this story, a series of three Chasing Influence workbooks is available. Stories are accompanied by discussion questions and answers. Each workbook contains 33 lessons to use with any team.
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©Troy Urdahl, 2025