“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
- Theodore Roosevelt
Be a Cockroach
There are many ways to finish the sentence “Think like a ____.” Think like a scientist … Think like a global citizen … Think like a child … Think like an artist … there are even books and movies about thinking like a dog, monk, or goat.
But, how about thinking like a cockroach?!?!?
Cockroaches symbolize filth and wreak havoc on those with breathing problems. The World Health Organization calls them “unhygienic scavengers in human settlements.” They carry 30-plus types of germs that are harmful to humans. One time, a cockroach even climbed into a woman’s ear. You're welcome for that mental image.
There is even a cockroach theory of life that says when bad news is revealed, there will be more related, negative news to follow. If you find one cockroach, there must be more, the theory goes. Despite cockroaches’ bad rap, they possess many qualities we all benefit from emulating. Consider the following characteristics cockroaches exemplify and how these traits can benefit any leader or team member.
Adaptability: Cockroaches are incredibly adaptable creatures. They can survive in virtually any environment. From dirty alleys to pristine kitchens, from tropical forests to deserts, cockroaches can thrive in a wide range of environments. Life is changing and unpredictable. We must be able to adjust to life’s curveballs. (Some have said cockroaches are unaffected by radiation - even cockroaches have limits … this isn’t true.)
Persistence: Cockroaches are relentless and persistent; they will not give up easily. They keep going, no matter what obstacles they face. The cockroach knows success comes to those who keep pushing forward.
Resilience: Cockroaches can endure extreme temperatures, can survive long periods of time without food, and are resistant to pesticides. Cockroaches are such survivors they can even live for several days without their heads! In our lives, we'll face challenges and setbacks. Resilience is key to bouncing back.
Teamwork: When it comes to finding food, avoiding predators, and matters of survival, cockroaches demonstrate impressive teamwork. Strength comes from collaboration. Together, we can achieve more than we can alone.
Resourcefulness: Cockroaches are remarkably resourceful. They have no phone, money, or car … yet they can find sustenance in the most unlikely places. Practice the mindset of making the most of our opportunities, no matter how limited they may seem.
Maybe it’s time to reconsider the cockroach’s reputation. Not quite ready for that? Well, maybe we don’t need to embrace having cockroaches in our houses, but that doesn’t mean we cannot act like them sometimes!
“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”
- Charles Darwin
Connecting this quote to the story. The quote demonstrates the importance of adaptability, a trait of cockroaches. In the face of challenges, individuals must adapt like the resilient cockroach.
This week’s Chasing Influence tip: Growth and learning involve failures—we must be courageous enough to show up and try … even if facing challenges may mean stumbling before succeeding.
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, 2023