In the rolling hills of western Connecticut, some very unusual leadership lessons can be found.  Per this article, a Scottish Highland bull has been on the loose for over a month, braving frigid temperatures and evading capture.

This story is more than just an amusing tale of a wayward farm animal.  It is a powerful metaphor for leadership.  Let’s break down five key leadership lessons we can learn from this resilient and elusive bull.

1. Adaptability is Key to Survival

The Scottish Highland breed is built for tough conditions.  Designed to withstand harsh winters, this bull has been roaming in sub-freezing temperatures and still holding its own.

Great leaders must also be adaptable.  Markets change, employees come and go, and external circumstances are rarely predictable.  The leaders who thrive are those who, like the Highland bull, are built for the challenges that come their way.  They do not crumble under pressure; they adjust, pivot, and keep moving forward.

2. Fear Can Keep You from Safety

The bull is not lost — people know where it is.  The problem is that it is scared.  Every time its owner or rescuers approach, it runs in the opposite direction, avoiding the very people who want to help it.

How often do leaders resist guidance, mentorship, or even constructive criticism because of fear?  Fear of failure, fear of appearing weak, or fear of losing control can keep leaders from reaching the safety of wise counsel.  A great leader knows when to trust, when to listen, and when to let someone help them get back on track.

3. Visibility Doesn’t Always Mean Accessibility

People keep spotting the bull, but that doesn’t mean they can catch it.  Leaders must understand that being present — being “seen” — is n0t enough.  Visibility is important, but accessibility is even more critical.

Do your employees, teammates, and peers feel they can approach you?  Are you truly available when they need you?  Great leaders don’t just appear in the distance; they engage, listen, and make themselves approachable so that when challenges arise, their teams know they can count on them.

4. Everyone Has an Opinion, But You Must Stay Focused

The runaway bull has become a local sensation.  Some people sympathize with it, others think it is cute, and some see it only for the steaks it could produce.

In leadership, people will always have opinions — about you, your decisions, and your potential.  Some will cheer for you, some will criticize you, and some will only see you as a means to an end.  The key is to stay focused on your mission.  A leader who listens to every voice will never move forward.  Take in feedback, but stay grounded in your vision and values.

5. Sometimes, You Have to Let the Chase Play Out

Despite repeated efforts, no one has been able to capture the bull — yet.  The owner has not given up, and they continue the pursuit.  But sometimes, leadership requires patience.

People don’t always change overnight. Challenges don’t resolve instantly.  Teams don’t transform in a single day.  As a leader, you have to be persistent.  Keep showing up, keep pursuing excellence, and keep working the problem.  Eventually, the right opportunity will come, and you will be ready to act.

Conclusion

This Scottish Highland bull may be wandering the Connecticut hills today, but its story teaches us something timeless about leadership: success requires resilience, trust, and persistence.  The next time you face an obstacle, ask yourself — are you running from help, or are you positioning yourself to be led to safety and success?

Like the bull, you may feel lost in the cold today.  But with the right mindset, you will eventually find your way home.

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