The Visual Executive

Prologue

I am blind, therefore I see.

Section One – The Visual Trap

Chapter 1 - The Monkey Wrench

 
While lounging in his hammock soaking up the sun and sipping a banana martini, Max’s cell phone suddenly belted out that old Monkey’s tune “I’m a Believer.” This reminded Max of his old seeing days in the band. Those were the best days of an ill spent youth. But like most monkey’s, Max grew up, got an education, moved to the big jungle and had a family. The difference was Max did it while slowly going blind and had become a top notch Visual Buster.

Max used his tail to find his singing cell phone; grabbed it and answered, “Max here.”

“Max old boy, it’s your pal Leo. I need a favor; same old routine that we used on the last Visual Busting. But this time it’s Jungle Tech. You go in and work with the executive team and get them on track. You’re my monkey wrench. When I throw you in things always get fixed up.”

Max laughed and said, “Leo, for you, anything. You know you’re the only guy that can get me out of this paradise.”

Leo exclaimed, “Max that’s great. This executive team needs a lot of help. Be in my den tomorrow morning at first light. I’ll get you up to speed.”

Leo the lion was Chairman of the Board of Jungle Tech Incorporated. He had utilized Max the monkey on numerous occasions to go in and work closely with the executive teams of one of his many companies.

Jungle Tech was not firing on all cylinders. Leo had a great President running the show. Tag the tiger was a true hunter. Leo had brought Tag along slowly. He quite liked Tag and Tag had gradually acquired a piece of the company. Tag now had 3% but for some perceived tax benefit, the shares were actually in Tag’s wife’s name: Tanya the tigress. This was of course, just a formality and Tanya followed along famously.

Tag had a strong leadership team surrounding him. It was reputed to be the best in the Jungle. There should be no reason that they were not aggressively growing in this burgeoning high tech market. Leo knew what the root of the problem was. It was that dam Visual Trap again. That is why he called in Max. That blind monkey could break any Visual Trap. He was a real visual buster. Leo laughed to himself. That quiet monkey could shake up the jungle even more than when he, Leo the lion went on a roaring rampage.


Chapter 2 - The Lion’s Den

Max came shuffling into Leo’s den at first light. Leo watched Max enter swishing his white cane back and forth as he located the big leather chair across from Leo’s desk. Max plunked himself down and spoke, “Leo it’s great to be back in the den.”

Leo roared with excitement, “You old monkey, I move that chair just a few feet each time you come in and you always seem to find it. That’s amazing.”

“I know you do, Leo and that’s half the fun, trying to guess where you’re going to move this old chair. One of these days you’re going to fool me and leave it in the same spot. Hey Leo, you’ve changed your brand of cigars.”

Leo responded, “No fooling that nose of yours. I’ve gone Cuban. These are so very fine!” Leo hands Max a cigar and gives him a light. “I still don’t have a non-smoking policy in my den. I know you still have the occasional stogie?”

“Once in a while on a special occasion; and you getting me back in the jungle is a special occasion. Cigars really are a disgusting habit.” Says Max, as he takes a puff.

Leo lowers his voice, “Okay half pint, let’s get down to business, I’m turning off my office phone, cell phone and PDA, so we can really talk. Jungle Tech is in a hot market. It’s got the best and brightest running it. Yet we’re not gaining any market share. We’re not growing or bringing in adequate profits. Our offerings are always a half step behind the competition. I’m fed up!”

Max listens intently as Leo explains his concerns. Leo’s voice becomes more animated when he talks about Jungle Tech’s executive team. “When I ask Tag and his crew questions, I get a lot of fancy slides, multi media shows, oodles of spread sheets and a ton of techno toys. These animals have sales projections coming out of the ying-yang, but it’s all visual fluff.”

“I’ll do my assessment but it’s sounding like the Visual Trap,” responds Max.

“This executive team is in it deep! They are going no where till we break them free. Their latest multi media show which is supposed to be their strategic plan is asking for a huge injection of capital and I mean huge! They claim this will be what it takes to transform them to number one. They will get zero capital from me unless I see, hear and feel the strategic thought, creativity and passion required to be number one. They are so visually dependent that they have become totally ineffective.”

“The visual dependency issue is really doing a number on many executive teams in the jungle. It’s affecting how they communicate, think, lead and innovate.” stated Max.

“That’s why you’re here. I want you to break this bunch out of the Visual Trap. They will put up a fight but this is their last chance. I’ve tried everything.” 

“Leo, what happens if they don’t break free?”

“I’m at a breaking point with this bunch. I will fire anyone who can not break free of the Visual Trap! And there will be no capital until you give the team the green light.”

Max, leans back and sighs; “Leo, give me some time to get a feel for the situation. Then we’ll talk some more. One last question, how do you and Tag connect?”

“We get along great, inside and outside of business. He plays a good game of golf, enjoys fine single malt and has a terrific sense of humour when he relaxes. He just needs some help as a President.”

“I’ll be chatting with you soon and till then, take care, and say hi to that charming lioness of yours,  who’s way too good for you.” Leo laughs, as he helps Max find the door.

Leo calls up Tag the tiger and indicates that he will have Max the monkey spend some time with the Jungle Tech executive team to free them of something called the Visual Trap, which they will soon learn all about. Tag protests and wants to know what Max’s real purpose is.

Leo responds, “Jungle Tech and your team are struggling. In other words no huge capital injection until Max gives your team the green light. And anyone who can’t break the trap is gone.”

Tag gulps, sputters and protests. He thinks this is a waste of time. He has never heard of a Visual Trap and it seems stupid. Jungle Tech has no major issues. He just needs that capital to take him to the top.  

Leo reminds Tag of Jungle Tech’s mediocre overall performance, not just in the financial area, but also the customer satisfaction numbers, employee productivity and employee opinion numbers. Tag starts to protest again but his voice is already sounding shaky. Leo assures him this is for the benefit of Tag and the company. Tag wants more details and throws up additional road blocks but Leo insists, leaving a resigned Tag reluctantly agreeing to give it a chance.

“Oh, one more thing.” Leo says, “Max is also blind, but do not worry, he’ll do just fine. That monkey has seen or should I say, heard it all. Might think he’s kind of quiet or soft at first. He’s a scrappy one, he just knows when and how to fight.”

They end the call. Tag smiles and thinks to himself, this will be a cake walk. No blind monkey will last with me around. I’ll eat him for dinner and get my capital for dessert!

At the same time Leo smiles and says to himself; “Tag my boy you do not know what’s going to hit you, and it’ll be the best thing that ever happened to you.”

Now that Max was coming in; Leo relaxed somewhat. Although, he still couldn’t get rid of the other knot in his stomach. Garth the gorilla and his 22% ownership of Jungle Tech. Garth sat on the board of directors and was always a pain in Leo’s neck. There was some bad wind blowing and Leo knew Garth was behind it. Relax Leo, he told himself, between your 48% and Tag and Tanya’s 3%, we’re just fine. We still control this ship. The truth was he did not trust Garth. Not only was he too loud, he was a terrible golfer and lied about his golf score all the time. Leo laughed as he realized that even Max was a better golfer than Garth.

 
Chapter 3 - The Tiger’s Lair

After slamming down the receiver on his phone, Tag immediately yelled; “Sophia, get in here.”

Sophia the snake came slithering in and using her smoothest of voices said, “Yes, Tag what can I do for you?” Sophia had been Tag’s executive assistant for a long time and she was a real predator. She knew how to play the game. She put up with Tag while he was the guy in charge, but she could switch her fake loyalties on a dime. Sophia always made sure she knew which way the wind was blowing. She believed that Tag wasn’t doing the bang up job he thought he was and that the heat was going to get turned up one of these days.

Tag growled; “Sophia, get that bunch we call an executive team to meet me in the executive meeting room in one hour. No excuses, I want them all there.”

“Yes boss, right away boss.” Sophia the snake was slipping out, thinking that someone might have just struck a match.

“Sophia, one more thing; what is a Visual Trap?”

Sophia replied, “I know of lots of traps but I never heard of that one.”

Within one hour, Sophia had as many of the executives gathered up for the meeting as possible. She couldn’t locate Leanne the leopard, V.P. Marketing, as Leanne hated being in the office when her boss, Tag was there. Also missing was Hal the hyena, V.P. Sales, Jungle Tech’s sleazy sales leader. He would claim he was out with a customer but he was usually in the bar or chasing something on the side. Oh, Sophia knew the dirt. This snake could get into corners that no one knew existed.

Sophia had to be pushy to get Edward the elephant, V.P. Technology, to attend. Edward thought the technical design meeting he was conducting was much more important then Tag’s emergency meeting. Sophia thought Edward was right but Tag is the boss.

Sophia had no difficulty rounding up Paula the parrot, V.P. Animal Resources, who was such a cheer leader type. Then there was Rock the rhino, V.P. Finance, who was real eye candy. Wow thought Sophia he can check my figures any time. Then there was Zelda the zebra, V.P. Customer Care, she had gotten the company out of many a trouble created by one of the executive clowns. One of those clowns was Archie the ape, V.P. Operations. What an idiot Sophia mused. Finally there was Camilla the cougar, V.P. Legal, she was every bit the professional. Camilla emigrated to the Jungle from Britain and she thought she was better than everyone at Jungle Tech. She did however seem to be infatuated with Rock the rhino, who seemed to be in love with his numbers and paid no attention to her. Although this amused Sophia, it absolutely infuriated Camilla. What a team. They loved their titles and fancy offices. There was a lot of talent hidden in Tag and his band of eight merry followers. However, as a group Sophia saw them really spin their wheels.

Tag the tiger pranced into the executive meeting room and planted himself at the head of the large mahogany table. He snarled, “Thanks for coming. I’ll make this brief. I have decided to have a guy come into Jungle Tech and work with you on some issues you may be having. A monkey named Max will be showing up tomorrow morning and be spending some time with us.”

Snorts go up from Archie the Ape and Edward the elephant. “A monkey,” says Archie the Ape, “what’s a monkey going to do, swing from the trees; oh, I mean chandeliers?,”  Archie kept snorting as he was laughing.

Edward said laughingly: “Monkeys are only good for organ playing.”

Rock inquired, “What will he focus on?”

“It’s a term called the Visual Trap, highly complex. Max the monkey will show you as I don’t have the time,” responded Tag.

Archie and Edward began snorting and laughing again.

Zelda the zebra, calmly stated, “Settle down and let’s find out more.”

Tag pronounced, “Paula, I see you as our lead on this.”

“Tag, how does he work with me?” chirped Paula the Parrot, who had run Animal Resources for the past two years. Paula has worked her way up from a clerical job. She had taken night classes for years, worked hard and was always to be seen with the right sort, like Tag.

“Just show him around, get him to say we are not in this Visual Trap. Let the rest of us continue to focus on the business. This is really cosmetic. I want this blind monkey to give us a few brownie points with our illustrious chairman of the board,” purred Tag.

“Blind monkey” laughed Edward the elephant; “What goof put you on to this menace?”

Meanwhile, Archie the ape is pounding his fist on the table in a fit of laughter and saying; “Has the circus come to town? What a joke. Who is going to cut up the blind monkey’s bananas and feed the little guy?”

Rock the rhino, quietly speaks, “Hey, I don’t see so well, and I still do a good job. Give this monkey a chance. I’m intrigued with the concept.”

Camilla’s first instinct is to support Rock. She clears her voice, stumbling over her first words. “I, ah, well, I agree with Rock, Give this monkey a chance. Tag you said something about keeping our chairman happy. Does Leo the lion know about this monkey coming in?”

“Ya, ya  I told Leo what I was doing, and Leo kind of knows this Max the monkey. But remember, Max reports directly into me and only me. Don’t be airing any dirty laundry around this monkey. I want him to tell Leo we are not in a Visual Trap and off the monkey goes. Then we get our capital to transform us to number one. End of meeting; back to work.”

Paula the parrot flutters off to clean up her office and prepare for Max’s arrival the next morning. She alerts the receptionist that a blind monkey named Max will be showing up in the morning and to send him right up to her office. Paula also contacts Sophia the snake, to get Max a few minutes with Tag. Paula sure sees Tag as a strong leader. Things seem so much brighter when he’s in control and she can just follow orders. That makes things happy and nice, she thinks.

Sophia received a call shortly after the meeting wrapped up, from Leanne the Leopard, who gives her a mock apology for not being able to attend the meeting. Both laugh and then get down to business.

“What was the meeting all about?” asks Leanne.

“Looks like Tag is having some blind monkey come in and work on something called a Visual Trap. What a joke! I don’t see what the fuss is about,” says Sophia.

Leanne the leopard snarls; “That’s all! Glad I didn’t cancel my massage to attend. Tag doesn’t know what he’s doing. You would see if I was running the place things would look different.”

“Oh, you never know what’s ahead of us.”  Sophia spoke slyly, “There seems to be more to this monkey. Our chairman Leo will not give us the money we need for the transformation of Jungle Tech until the monkey gives us the green light. I also see this monkey having more of an affect on each executive’s career then Tag is letting on. I’ll keep my ears low to the ground. Tag always talks way too loud for his own good.”

“That Tag is such an over grown kitty. But if Leo’s involved I’ll have to be a little more careful about laughing in this monkey’s face.” Then she continued arrogantly: “I’ll wrap him around my little claw. He will see that I, Leanne the leopard should be the new Jungle Tech President.”

“And I’ll be right there backing you up.” promised Sophia.

Leanne replied with fake sincerity, “Sophia, you’re the best. Keep me posted on what you see. Meanwhile, I’ll start manipulating a half-wit monkey. What a breeze.”

 
Chapter 4 – The Dark Jungle

The next morning Max and his talking laptop arrived at Jungle Tech’s lavish headquarters. He had a frightful time finding the place as the cab driver dropped him off at the wrong building in spite of the fact that Max had insisted that his voice activated global tracking system told him he was at the wrong building. The cab driver was certain they were at Jungle Tech headquarters and rushed Max out, Then sped off. One more time Max kicked himself for letting the sighted animal dominate him, even though he was suspicious of the cabbie’s intent.

When Max arrived at the parking lot of the wrong building, he asked for directions. The parking lot attendant pointed repeatedly at the Jungle Tech building. Max finally got through to the parking lot attendant that he was blind and received some very in-coherent verbal directions. Oh, the mobility challenges of the blind or is it now visually challenged individual. Whatever the word the challenges were the same?  Some of the technology sure helped but it’s not like it was when he was able to see and enjoy the wonderful visual world. However he sure enjoyed discovering the wonderful gifts the other four senses had given him. But there were those days. How visual this world is becoming. Is everyone’s primary sense visual these days? 

The first voice Max hears as he walks into the reception room of Jungle Tech is the sweet sound of the receptionist, Gracey the giraffe, “Welcome Max, we’ve been expecting you. My name is Gracey and if there’s any thing you need, please ask. Let me guide you upstairs to Paula’s office. She’s the first one you will be meeting with today. Later, you will meet with the big cat himself, Tag. I took the liberty of finding you a spot to sit. It’s close to the washroom, lunchroom and the elevator. If you need any reading done for you or help with hooking up your laptop, just call. Shall we go? Do you like to be guided by the elbow or shoulder? What’s your preference?”

Max gives her the biggest smile and says, “Gracey, you are a gem! I think you should be Vice President of First Impressions, because you make great ones. Thank you, please give me your elbow and show me the way.”

Gracey and Max motored off, chattering all the way to Paula the parrot’s office. Max could tell that Gracey was tall and athletic. He was sure she played a serious game of basketball. He was just as sure that she was just as good on the court as she was in the office. Some giraffes just naturally have talent.

On their trip they walked passed Zelda the zebra, and they were introduced. They actually had a brief chat and Max’s first impression was quite favorable. Max kept telling himself that first impressions never tell the story on anyone, but how many times in his life had the first impression turned out to be the right one?

Paula was waiting for Max with nervous anticipation. When they arrived at Paula’s office, Gracey ushered in Max. Introductions were made. Gracie found Max a chair and insisted Max call her when he was done, so that she could set him up in his work space and give him the grand tour. Max smiled and said, “Gracey, you’re the best. Thank you very much. It’s going to be a pleasure working with you.”

When Max was settled in a chair, Paula started chirping and could not quit. Paula was fluttering about and rambled on, non-stop, without Max getting a word in edge wise. Paula finally came out with it; “I’m so nervous, I’ve never spent any time with a blind monkey before. I’m very uncomfortable. What do I do? How can I help?”

Max smiled and soothingly spoke, “Thank you for sharing that. First thing, is just to relax. I’m not going to bite. Just pretend I’m not blind and if I need any assistance, I will ask. Also, if you have any questions about blindness, please feel free to ask.”

“How did you become blind?” blurted Paula, “It must be awful; how do you survive?”

Max sighed, “I lost my sight over a number of years, so I did have the gift of sight previously. But I really live a very full life. Sure, there are some things this monkey can’t do any more; however, I have learned to enjoy so many new and exciting things with the enhanced use of my other senses.”

“Wow!” exclaimed Paula. “I’m so scared in the dark; that must be hard.”

“Not at all, you get used to it. Now let’s talk about you.” Max said. “I’ll bet you are pretty important around here and we’re going to spend a lot of time together. You’re a real caring person and you need a certain amount of empathy to be in Animal Resources. We’re going to learn a lot from each other.”  

Paula sighed, “That’s great. I really want to work together and learn. But, well, ah, you’re not after my job or anything like that?”

Max reassuringly leaned forward and spoke, “Paula, I can guarantee you that I am not after yours or anyone else’s job here. This monkey is no longer a part of the jungle and loves it. I only do special favors for special friends; that’s the only reason I’m here. I want to assist the Jungle Tech team in breaking free of the Visual Trap in order that you can move forward. But I’ll bet your wondering what a Visual Trap is?”

“What is it,” asked Paula?

“It’s where an animal utilizes the visual sense to such an extent that their other senses are somewhat ignored,” Spoke Max. “It throws off our natural balance. It then affects the way the animal communicates, thinks and trusts having dramatic affects on their ability to be strategic, creative or to be practical.”

“I can’t see that we would have that problem,” said Paula.

“Oh your chairman feels that Jungle Tech has it in spades. He’s never been wrong before,” stated Max. “But we’ll find out for ourselves. And if we have an issue then I will need your help to free the animals.”

Paula excitedly fluttered in her chair and chirped; “I see. Let’s get started. This will be great! What do we do?”

Max clapped and said, “That’s the spirit. You and I will be a great team. Let me get settled. I’ll have a chat with Tag and then I’ll be back to start laying the groundwork with you. Now, if I could please have some assistance to find Tag’s office it would be greatly appreciated.”

“Alright, how do I guide you?” exclaimed Paula.

Max instructed Paula on how to guide him and away they went. Paula continued to chat up a storm. Paula purposefully wanted to ensure that Max was very aware of how great a leader Tag the tiger really was. As Max was being guided by Paula’s elbow he got a better sense of her being. She seemed to be a little unsure of her place in the executive meeting room. She was the only bird with all those mammals and sometimes she felt like she was being left out. He could tell by her elbow that she was a little plump and wore discount department store clothes. He was certain the cheap clothing was a habit she developed when she was in a clerical job. The plumpness was probably because she spent so much time in school and work. She sure was a pleasant, eager and happy parrot, even if she was starting to repeat herself. Max was certain they would work well together.

Chapter 5 - The Eye of the Tiger

Max was formally introduced to Sophia outside of Tag’s office. The first thing Max noticed was how hypnotizing that Opium perfume was on her. Wow, this was one exotic snake. He could tell by the sound of her movements that her skintight satin dress was covering a curvaceous figure. Max was certain her dress was red and that she had her dark hair pulled back severely at the temples. He could feel her dark eyes drilling into him. Sophia was very pointed and made sure Max knew he must come by and see her from time to time. Alarm bells were ringing in Max’s head. His intuition seldom went wrong and he knew this slippery one would have to be handled carefully. He was certain she had more than one of the executives eating right out of her hand.

After the usual introductory pleasantries were completed Max was led into Tag’s spacious office and seated in the most uncomfortable chair he had been in for a long time. Did they put the good furniture away so the monkey wouldn’t ruin it, thought Max? It was pretty obvious that he was being made to feel uncomfortable. Doors were shut; it was just Tag and Max. Dead silence. Max could cut the tension with a machete.

Max broke the silence, “Tag, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m really looking forward to working with you.” Max put out his hand for Tag to shake it. There was no paw offered back. Max smiled and thought here we go, let the games begin.

All of a sudden Tag started pacing, stopped and said, “Look here monkey. Let’s get one thing straight. You work for me. You dance to my tune. I say jump, you say how high. That’s the way this thing will work. I’ll say when you’re done. Maybe you’ll get out of here alive.”  

Max kept his smile, dragging out the moment. In his early days of blindness, he had let this sort of animal run rough shot over him, but not now. He had been dealing with the Tag’s of the world for a long time. Max figured that Tag had one or two more growls in him and then they would really talk. Max thought they might actually be able to work together. It will take a show down.

Max quietly spoke, “Tag, I recognize you are the President and I respect that fact. I’ll certainly take direction from you, however…” Before Max could finish his sentence, Tag growled, “No however, you’ll take all direction from me little monkey. You’re in my jungle and I am the king. Got it.”

Max waited a second and spoke “As I was saying, however, I’m a professional and conduct myself accordingly. If my arrangement with Jungle Tech is not amenable to accomplishing the agreed to objective then I’ll be out of here. That’s my guarantee.”

Tag growled one more time, “Professional, my ass! If I want you to do something, you’ll do it. You’re going to make me look good in front of Leo. I know how to run things. You don’t want the eye of this tiger focused on you. Got it.”

“If you’re’ not in the Visual Trap I’m out of here. If you’re in the trap you’ll have me until you break free.” Stated Max.

“I have no idea what a Visual Trap is and I do not care. How could a blind monkey actually see any trap? We’ll put some fluffy cosmetic plan together. Then you enlighten Leo that I and Jungle Tech are free of this stupid trap. Then I get my capital for our transformation project. We pat you on the head. Lead you outside. Good riddance. Do you see things clearly now?”

Max gambled that Tag had shot his last bullet. Max got up to leave. The time had come. It was now or never. Max turned to depart while speaking softly, “Tag, I can help you but not under those conditions. I’m a pretty accommodating monkey. You’ll maintain control and will receive the accolades you desire. But this monkey can’t help you unless you want to be helped. Maybe with your super eyesight, you’re missing the obvious. Good luck, with your capital and your career.” Max hated going here but it was the only way. Tag was a jungle fighter. Make it or break it, right now. He had never failed Leo before but there was always a first.

Max was thankful to be out of that horrible chair. He pulled out his white cane and began to fumble about, as he headed for the door. Tag started to laugh loudly, jumped up and took Max by the shoulder. While shaking his hand said, “Leo spoke highly of you and I see why. You have guts; tough monkey. Wish some of my team had your brass. You and I are going to get on just fine. Now what the hell is a Visual Trap?”

Tag and Max spent the next hour chatting about the business, market, financials and animal resources issues. They even started covering Tag’s vision for the future which required the large injection of capital. Tag presented his 130-slide document to Max with numerous charts, reams of numbers and seamless transitions. Tag was very proud of his slides, multi colored pretty diagrams, growing charts and endless details depicted by color. Tag slipped into the visual details way too quickly. Max thought how he was being led by his visual slides; rather than being supported by those slides. He was truly another victim of the Visual Trap.

Max asked numerous questions and explained the concept of the Visual Trap. Tag could not connect with the concept of visual dependency. Then Max hit him with the numbers.

“Tag, since we have been talking you have utilized 54 visual words such as see or view. You only utilized two listening words and one feeling word.”

Max went on to link this imbalance to how one communicates, thinks strategically and creatively, as well as how one makes decisions and how one trusts. Tag was shocked but began making the connection to himself and his team. Max talked Tag into taking a little walk with him. It was time for a fresh perspective.

Tag couldn’t stop chatting as they cruised along, enjoying the sunshine. Then Max asked the question, “Tag, you currently are in the middle of the pack. Do you really think that capital injection will take you to number one or is it time to face the reality of the situation?” 

Tag stopped walking, turned and looked hard and long at Max and purred softly, “I want Jungle Tech to be number one. I thought we had all it would take to be extremely successful except the capital to execute a full scale transformation. It’s time for me to look at things differently.”

“You’re on the right track. Who is your confidante? The one you share issues or utilize as a sounding board?”

“No one really. I used to bounce things off my wife, Tanya, but that hasn’t happened for a long time,” muttered Tag. Max heard the disappointment in Tag’s voice and could feel his shoulders slump.

“You need someone like that. All leaders do,” spoke Max.

“Heck, I’ve shared more with you in our first meeting than I have shared with anyone for a long time.”

Max responded energetically, “Tag, let’s keep talking like this. You and Jungle Tech have an exciting opportunity. I really want to help you get to the next level.”

“You bet. What do we need to do? I see you as the one to drive it. Whatever you require?”

Max excitedly said, “That’s the spirit. But we need to engage your executive team. This is a fair size undertaking. We’re not just talking surface change here.”

“At first glance This Visual Trap seems ridiculous. But at a deeper level I see what you mean. My executives will be laughing at me on this one,” speculated Tag.

“Real leaders can go deeper. Let’s find out who on your team are real leaders. We’ll need Paula the parrot to lead this from inside,” stated Max.

Tag agreed, “Absolutely! She’ll be perfect. Max, what are you up to tonight? Let’s get Paula and keep talking. I want to clarify the details on what we’ll do. What we’ll attack. Let’s get focused on the target.”

Max thought to himself, he’s still in the visual trap and it will take time to bring him out. Max said, “Let the three of us get together and discuss going forward. Then we need to take it to the executive team. Get them involved. We need their brains and energy. You also want to see and hear who is on side and who is off side. The vocal opposition is great; the passive resistance can be poison.”     

Tag agreed. On the walk back Max and Tag had a laugh or two. Tag seemed to really enjoy learning how to guide Max. He almost delivered Max into a signpost. Both had a good laugh and after Tag apologized, they carried on more carefully. Tag had a prance in his step and an “I just ate a bird” smile on his face when he walked in the building. Max was hoping Tag would lose that smile before they ran into Paula the parrot.

Gracey the giraffe leaned down and whispered to Max in the reception area, “I haven’t seen the big cat smile like that in two years. You’re a magician.”

It certainly ended on a more cordial basis, versus the confrontational opening of the meeting. Max felt they were building a little trust. It was a start. Tag, Max and Paula were going for dinner tonight. Tag was going to have an executive meeting tomorrow to cover the topic. Max had work to do. He was off and running. Pleasantries were over. It was time to dig in. Max chuckled and thought to himself, what have I got myself into? 

Chapter 6 – Method behind the monkey

“I have a proposition for you,” spoke Garth the gorilla into his new jPhone. Garth had to be the first in the jungle to get any new toy. “It involves a certain President’s wife. I will see you tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. at center court. No questions. I’m keeping you in the dark until then. Bye.”

For Max, the rest of the morning was spent with Gracey the giraffe getting his office space functional. He got his talking laptop working and felt like he was ready to tackle the trap. Max spent more quality time with Paula the parrot, gathering current information on the state of Jungle Tech and its leadership team. The current plans and approach certainly left a little to be desired but the executive team was doing the best they could while caught in the trap.

Max’s talking watch, with the friendliest of automated voices, was informing him it was time for lunch and a quick walk outside to clear the mind and digest the morning’s information. Max loved to walk and wear off those extra pounds arising from his second bad habit, which was consuming excess bananas and peanuts. For today’s lunch he had those delicious peanut butter and banana sandwiches, his favorite. He always inhaled one or two more then he should but if he faithfully walked and exercised he could keep his weight, well, almost in check.  

As Max swept his white cane along the sidewalks around Jungle Tech’s headquarters, he reflected and got lost in his thoughts. Tag had it bad. It was that Visual Trap. Many leaders are rapidly descending into the Visual Trap. They are plummeting into an invisible trap. One that snares you, binds you and has you locked up with chains with no keys in sight! It sneaks up on them. They can’t hear it. They can’t feel it. They can’t taste it. They can’t smell it. And sadly, they can’t see it.

Max started to muse that the Visual Trap revolved around one of our natural senses that takes the least amount of effort to utilize. It’s very natural. It can over ride the other senses, both at a conscious and unconscious level. Because of its effortless use we have a tendency to gravitate to the visual mode of receiving and sending communications especially when we are in a hurry, under stress, over anxious and just plain lazy. We as a society are becoming more and more reliant on the visual sense versus our other natural senses. Compounded with this, the majority of new technologies in recent decades are geared to the utilization and stimulation of the visual sense. This created a visual dominance with regard to our modes of communication and has major negative ramifications on our natural thought processes, emotions and ultimately our actions. We believe what we see more than what we hear, feel or sense.

Max continued to ponder; we think that visualization is all in the name of progress. However, there is a cost to individuals as well as an organizational cost. There is a way out of this trap but we have to start changing our modes of communication and the resulting thought processes, emotions, and actions.

Max finished his walk and had a clear head. It was time to make a few notes on his laptop. But first he’d locate the washroom. He knew it was relatively close to his workstation, however Max did get slightly turned around when Gracey was guiding him earlier in the day. It was either one left, then one right or two lefts. He’d figure it out and if not ask. He laughed as he thought of the time he dropped his cell phone on the washroom floor. He was in there all by himself. Max heard it slide away from him, but did not know how far it had gone. There he was down on his hands and knees, sliding his white cane back and forth, attempting to locate the cell. It was his good fortune that Mindy  had called him. The sound of the ring got him pointed in the right direction and Max finally felt his cell. And he had answered with an exuberant “Hello, Max here, and I thank you.”

Max had been married to Mindy for many wonderful years. They had raised a great family and been there for each other through it all. Max felt he was one extremely fortunate monkey to have a wife like Mindy and such wonderful children. He remembered it well, the sadness resulting from his vision loss. It seemed to just happen one day when he no longer could see his beautiful Mindy’s face or the smiling faces of his kids. It hit him hard. He knew it was coming but it took a while to really accept that fact. There’s no going back. The lights had gone out.

Mindy and the kids worried about Max in his many travels. One thing Max did not miss about the jungle was the travel. Max smiled as he thought if Mindy ever knew some of the close calls I’ve experienced out there, she’d never allow me to leave the house alone. But, as a monkey who played in the jungle, you had to go to the jungle; the jungle didn’t come to you.

Rock the rhino had spotted Max heading back to his office and immediately came over and introduced himself. “Hi Max, my name is Rock, and welcome to Jungle Tech. It’s great to have you working with us,” enthusiastically spoke Rock while shaking Max’s hand.

“Thank you Rock, it’s my pleasure to be here and I look forward to spending some time with you and Jungle Tech,” responded Max.

“If you need any help, just call,” said Rock. “Also my sight isn’t so good and I’m really looking forward to seeing what kind of technology toys you utilize.”

“I would be happy to demo them,” commented Max. “The voice activated and speech technology are all a part of my Visual Busting tool kit.”

“You’re on,” exclaimed Rock. “Now that’s one tool kit I want to see.” 

Max had developed his own process for tackling this visual dependency challenge. He called this process his VBP, (Visual Busting Process) and it involved 4 phases; Assessment, design, Implementation and Support. VBP was utilized as an iterative process rather than a linear one. It was used as a guide through the overall undertaking. Every visual busting was very different, however a sound and flexible process made a world of difference.

Max also had four core areas which must pass the test to ensure the success of any Visual Busting. The core areas in the Visual Busting Process are: Communications, Thinking, Trust and Seeing Beyond. This team would receive the green light from Max if they successfully pass the test on the first three phases. Communications, Thinking and Trust. These could be attained within a relatively shorter time horizon with a focused effort. However with the fourth core area, Seeing Beyond would typically take much longer. Once and a while their would be a unique group that learn to See Beyond in a shorter time line.

Edward the elephant called Max on his cell and arrogantly said, “I understand you have requested network access. I usually do not get involved at this level; however I need to analyze the implications of this request. You blind monkeys utilize specialized technology and that could be a security hazard”

Max attempted to talk Edward into moving the request along, however Edward had a host of concerns. Edward promised to get to it as soon as possible but claimed he was very busy. Max made one call to Gracey and explained the situation. Ten minutes went by and Max received a call.

“It’s done,” laughed Gracey. “You are learning who to call if you need results.”

As with most animals when the concept of visual dependency arises; there was the usual denial and out right dismissal of the concept. Most individuals and teams go through this process. Then the facts are presented to them and the awareness begins. After the awareness phase they begin to think about solutions and then finally the action kicks into gear. However it was not uncommon for individuals and teams to back away the first time the real challenges of the Visual Trap were presented to them.

Max knew understanding the behavior profile of the individual executives and the team as a whole was critical. These behavior profiles would affect the type of intervention Max selected. That’s why the majority of the individual interventions would be carried out on a one-on-one basis. However for group intervention; the whole team had to take part.

Paula had revealed to Max in their earlier session; “Many times a couple of executives will use a masterful deflection strategy in our meetings, just when we are close to a major decision. I’m not sure Tag sees what they are doing. They will have fun with this visual dependency concept.”

Max would have to be aware of this in their first meeting. Even if they just got the core group on side with the rest somewhat agreeing, it would be enough to get started and allow him to begin. Getting that core group on side would be key. Certainly Paula the parrot, maybe Zelda the zebra and even Rock the rhino but that would unfold starting at the executive meeting.

Early in the visual busting process is the big ego time as Max called it. Most executive team members would be attempting to figure out which way the wind was blowing; either openly or silently laughing at the concept. They would be very status, power and control conscious and try to maintain the status quo. They would be cautious if they were worried about losing power or face. That garbage will hopefully break down quickly this time. Regardless, Max would have a process to start moving the group forward.

Max would gather current state information on the team primarily through documents, interviews and utilizing a behavior profiling process. If the rest of the executive were in the Visual Trap as deep as Tag; then Max anticipated it would take approximately two months to get them back on track. Then came the question of whether the team could stay the course. There were a ton of mind shifts that needed to take place.

This early stage is what Max referred to as the initial unfreezing of the current state, in order to have the right mind sets to develop an effective future state. Max smiled to himself as he really liked the word unfreeze. He knew it was not really a word but it was what was really happening and besides when he said “unfreeze” he felt like an American president.

Paula and Archie the ape walked by Max’s workspace and Max was cordially introduced to Archie. The first words out of Archie were; “I don’t think much of monkeys, especially ones who try to change stuff. Don’t be coming around my branch. I don’t see any Visual Trap.” 

Chapter 7 – Jungle Dining

Tag the tiger was strutting around with a newfound confidence after he had returned from his walk with Max the monkey. He even had a huge smile on his face. Sophia the snake was shocked as she hadn’t seen that side of Tag for a long time. What did that monkey do? She slipped into Tag’s office and said, “How’s it going boss? Is this monkey any good?”

Tag stretched and purred, “He’s just what Jungle Tech needs. He’ll be great. We’re going to change the way we look at things around here.”

“That’s great, Tag” snipped Sophia.

Sophia knew there was no way that this executive team could change. It was time to make sure that Garth the gorilla knew she was on his side. Well, as long as Garth had a chance of winning. He hadn’t won yet, so she would play both sides. Garth had also been indirectly making her very nervous and uncomfortable with his recent comments about where her loyalty lies.

Sophia the snake quickly found a corner and dialed, “Hi Garth, guess what, Leo and Tag have some blind monkey in here to help the executive team see differently. Looks like another lame plan. Nothing will come of it but thought you’d want to know. Tag, has a new strut in his walk. Not seen that for a long while. This monkey appears to have some sort of link to that over grown kitty, Leo. Cheers.”  

Dinner with Tag the tiger and Paula the parrot was just what the doctor ordered. The great food, sweet aromas and excellent conversation had lifted all three to a new level of thought, with their creativity at an all time high. Max had his usual banana martini. That was Max’s third bad habit. Tag and Paula even tried one but Paula claimed they were too strong for her and Tag politely said bananas were not for him. Paula was sticking to her merlot and Tag was sticking with his Jack Daniels.

Paula commented, “Tag, I haven’t seen you this relaxed in a while. It’s great.”

Tag remarked, “Something happened this morning. I can’t put my claw on it. Ever since, Max and I debated the future of this company, I seem energized and believe there is a way forward. It’s great. Paula, we need you to drive this visual busting from within. Do not take your eye off the ball. Anything you want. Work closely with Max.”

Paula asked, “What’s the real objective of this one?”

Tag struck his paw down and exclaimed, “It’s to be number one! But we have to make a major visual dependency shift first.”

“Oh that’s all.” Paula laughed, “I thought it was going to be something difficult. How are we going to get the team to take this seriously? ”
 
“All the executives have to buy in.,” pronounced Tag as he pounded his paw. “Let’s look into an additional bonus for each executive who breaks the trap.”
 
“That will help but they’ll be defensive. You know they will just give lip service to this type of thing.”

Max interrupted the two, “Let me address it in tomorrows meeting. We will try to find out who can handle this and who is uncomfortable with it. There are different risks and rewards depending on the degree we go to with the team. Let’s have a good old fashion jungle fight to get to the bottom of everyone’s concerns. But we need to come out with a decision and move forward as one team.”

Tag ended the discussion, “Let’s hash it out and come out as one.”

Max stated, “Tag, for the first while after you kick it off, just listen to the others. Don’t lay it out there. It is important to get out the concerns and roadblocks first so that we can get greater consensus and address the issues during the visual busting process. Unfortunately just dictating change from the top without following a Process and engaging the team will usually fail to make lasting and fundamental changes.”

Tag responded, “Okay, I understand. It makes sense.”

The dinner was wrapping up and Max was taking care of the bill. Tag and Paula had risen to leave and soon they were absorbed in an invigorating conversation surrounding the upcoming challenge. By the time Max settled up with the waitress they had left out the front door without Max.

The sharp waitress caught on right away and said, “Hook on, we can still catch them.”

“Thank you, you’re quick. They think I have a homing device,” laughed Max.          

The waitress guided Max through the maze of tables in the restaurant and as they came out the front door the waitress called out across the parking lot to Paula and Tag, “I think you forgot something.” She then guided Max through the parking lot to where the two just stared in shock.

“Tag apologized; “I am sorry Max. We forgot all about you. We were so wrapped up in our topic. I have to get used to having a blind monkey around.”

Paula exclaimed; “I am so sorry, Max. Please get in the taxi, we’ll drop you off.” 

Max had a big smile and said, “No problem. I’ve been left in worse places. Usually someone comes to my rescue. Our wonderful waitress helped me out or I would have probably ended up back in the kitchen, ladies washroom or maybe the coat room talking to the coats.”

Max smiled to himself as he thought of the occasion where he and some friends had been out for dinner and had a few cocktails. Max had ventured off to the washroom and was told it was the first right. When you have had a few drinks your concentration isn’t quite as sharp. He took the second right and found himself in the ladies washroom and in the middle of one of those embarrassing situations.

They wrapped up the evening with Max, Tag and Paula thanking the waitress profusely and Tag adding to her already sizable tip. The three jumped in a taxi, sped off laughing and knowing the meeting in the morning would not be quite as cordial as this evening.

Chapter 8 - All Aboard

The next morning Max wandered into the executive meeting room approximately a half hour before the upcoming meeting. He preferred to get a feel for the room. Gracey the giraffe had graciously shown Max where it was. He had gotten settled in with his Braille notes and was focusing intently on the preparatory information. Max heard whispering coming from down the hall. One good thing was that his hearing was incredible. It had really sharpened over the years. Into the room waltzed two animals. Max could hear only two sets of steps and he knew one was a female and the other a male. He could smell Par Amour perfume and Captain Morgan rum. He would never understand why women wanted to smell like flowers, but at least it was better than smelling like Captain Morgan.

Leanne the Leopard and Hal the Hyena had arrived. Both were shocked as they turned on the lights and went to shut the door.

Leanne blurted out, “Who are you, and what are you doing here?”

“I’m Max the monkey, and I’m spending some time with you at Jungle Tech. Pleased to meet you. Your names are?” As Max held out his hand as Leanne and Hal reluctantly returned the gesture.

“Hal the hyena laughed, “You’re that blind monkey that everyone is talking about. What are you doing in here without the lights?”

Leanne was giving him the strangest look and reiterates, “How can you sit here in the dark? That’s weird.”

Max responded, “I didn’t realize the lights were off. I’m reading some Braille notes and it really doesn’t matter to me, light is optional. Guess it would seem strange to the visual world. Did you need the room before the meeting? I can go somewhere else.”

Leanne stumbled with her words as this situation seemed to throw her. She spoke awkwardly and said; “Ah, well, Hal, and I were going to have a quick chat in private. Would you mind?”

Hal said, “You see this is a meeting room for executives.”

Max graciously rose and replied, “No problem, I’ll go back to my workspace. Nice meeting you and we’ll chat with you at the meeting.”

Hal turned to Leanne, after Max had left and said, “I hope we didn’t seem rude. I wouldn’t want the little monkey to get mad.”

Leanne used a firm tone, “Be careful. We must watch ourselves. I hear Max might be one of Leo’s pawns. That seems strange him sitting in this room alone in the dark. What did he say he was doing with that Braille thing?”

Hal answered, “Got no idea; must be monkey talk. Now about what I was saying…”

The executive meeting commenced 30 minutes later and was attended by the entire Jungle Tech executive team. Tag did kick it off and laid out the basics of what he and Max covered yesterday. There were a couple of cracks directed at Tag about the fact that he had previously stated that he would have the monkey in and out with little impact to them. One look from Tag and the comments ended and they got down to business.

Then it was Max’s turn. He had spent a few hours after the dinner meeting analyzing some basic information about Jungle Tech and their competitors in the industry. The team was in shock that this little monkey was throwing out some of their numbers in relation to the industry. The data was not terribly flattering to Jungle Tech. Even Tag cringed. Max had the information summarized in two very crisp charts. Max knew if he didn’t put the information into a visual media, the group would not believe the numbers. Plus this way they had a longer effect on the group. Rock the finance rhino just smiled and nodded as he had previously hit this team with some of this data and the group always shrugged it off. Edward the Elephant and Leanne tried to denounce it, but were easily convinced of its validity by Max and Rock. Rock clearly found a new friend in Max. Of course, if Rock liked Max then so did Camilla the cougar.

Now that Max had set some facts in place he took them up to the strategic level and did not let them come down until the appropriate point. His facilitation skills were at his best and the team was taken through a thought provoking creative session that left all exhausted, especially Max. They had fought, argued and slammed their paws and tails. Hal the sales hyena, Leanne the marketing leopard and Archie the operations ape were the most defensive and wanted the least amount of  change. They even tried a couple of old deflection tricks but Max headed those off.

Max worked hard to have the group understand that a large injection of capital for a major transformation was not going to automatically loft Jungle Tech to number one. There were other issues holding them back. The logic of Jungle Tech’s situation was working against them. They were capitulating on the fact they had short-comings as a leadership team and finally gave in.

Then Max progressed to the visual issue. As the session went on Max was utilizing his mathematical mind to keep track of each executive’s use of words relating to the senses. It shocked the group when he listed each of their numbers. How many visual, auditory or tactile words each had utilized. The whole group was heavily weighted towards the visual and was in shock.

Max asked, “Do you think this is affecting how you communicate, think and act.” There was dead silence.

Rock was the first to reply, “Absolutely!” That sparked a very spirited discussion with the room somewhat split.

Then Max gave Paula the signal and the behavior profiling began. Paula assisted Max in having each executive complete a short and simple behavior profiling process. Each executive discovered their own primary and secondary behavior types. The executives only knew their own profile except for Paula and Max. A very short break was taken as Max found animals always needed a few minutes to digest the insights they were discovering about themselves.

During the break Paula quickly created a summary chart for Max with each executive’s primary and secondary behavior types. (Table 8.1) There were four categories: driver, promoter, analytic and supportive. Some executives had the same primary and secondary behavior types. That presented it’s own challenges. As Paula was whispering the chart to Max; red flags were going up in Max’s mind.

Table 8.1 Executive Behavior Types

The short break was over and Max explained the link between the various behavior types and the Visual Trap. How tendencies occur between a behavior type and their actions when entering the trap. While in the trap. And as they come out of the trap. He relayed the specific challenges each behavior type has in busting out of the trap. This was the solidifying process as Max could sense each of them making their own connection at the individual level. But Max was not done.

Max took them back to the group perspective. He described and discussed the Visual Trap and the challenges it presents for the group as a whole. He covered the difficulties for any group in breaking free. However if successfully accomplished it can lead to many uncovered treasures for the team and the individual. As he listed the benefits he came to the one that was the crowning gem.

Max talked about the development of the valuable skill called Seeing Beyond. He indicated anyone having Presidential aspirations or just wanting to be a real leader must desire this coveted skill. This grabbed Leanne’s attention and she was immediately on board.

Rock pointed out how the execution of a visual dependency shift will set up Jungle Tech for a massive transformation and the great potential for increased sales commissions as a result. Camilla was backing up Rock’s points, however doing it very clumsily.

When Hal the Sales leader heard the words increased sales commissions; he was instantly on side. Besides his partner in back room politics; Leanne had already signed up. Archie grew quieter as the session went on and then very reluctantly agreed but continually muttered under his breath. “No way I’m a driver. My wife keeps telling me that.”

The team was coming to some consensus that it was time for a visual shift. They had finally all agreed, whatever their personal reasons. Tag praised them all for their great contributions and claimed it was one of the best meetings they had ever had. Then Tag laughed and pointed out they only used two slides and the blind monkey put them up.

Tag announced that Max would be working with each of the executives in gathering current state information. As well Tag had stated that once Max was ready he will begin delivering individual development in one or more targeted areas to break the trap.

Max outlined the process and objectives. He conducted a round table and everyone publicly declared their support; committing time and energy. The team was semi committed at best; as the real opposition was coming. But that level of support was all Max required at this point in time. He knew that this type of change takes time and varies with each individual. This was just a start that would open up the doors for much greater degrees of intervention down the road.

Tag’s final words were, “I’m glad everyone has bought in. As Leo is insisting that every executive in Jungle Tech must be free of the Visual Trap. If you know what I mean.” Everyone knew what he meant. Max thought that fact alone can present its own problems in breaking the trap.

Max had made a small connection with Leanne through his comments on seeing beyond. Although he was still very cautious of her intentions. Leanne rated very high on playing the political game and Max hoped she rated as high on attaining results. As well, when the issue of executive communications arose, Leanne had quickly insisted that Max sit in on one of her team meetings. Leanne whispered in Max’s ear, while sitting next to him,” Let me show you how a future President should communicate.” 

As the meeting was wrapping up, Sophia was ensuring she was moving in such a way that it would be difficult for Rock to ignore her. Sure enough, soon Rock was watching Sophia and, of course, Camilla was watching Rock watching Sophia. Rock had just taken the first step into another form of a Visual Trap. Camilla was fuming, she had to act quickly. She even almost volunteered to take minutes at all future meetings so Sophia would not have to attend but then decided she did not want to stoop that low. After all, she was chief legal counsel for the company.

Camilla quickly spoke, “Rock, I have some documents in my office that require your immediate signature. And Sophia, you are aware that Jungle Tech’s dress code also applies to the lowly reptiles here? “

Sophia snapped back at Camilla, “I can change my skin at any time, dress codes are for mammals.” Then in her most sensual voice while looking directly into Rock’s eyes, she said, “Besides that code clearly does not take into account the incredible heat that is generated in the jungle.”

Max over heard the exchange and thought to himself; this jungle is definitely going to be hot, in so many different ways.

Section Two - Visual Communications

Chapter 9 – Unscrambling the Web

Garth the gorilla sat alone at his private table at the club while he enjoyed another exotic cocktail. He said to himself, “I wonder how many animals I’ll need to snare in my web before I bring down the king of the jungle. I also wonder how many of the females will succumb to my riches and power.”

“Hal, I’m going to fight this change stuff, boasted Archie. “Watch me crush that monkey.”

“Me too! No monkey is going to change me. This sales executive got his education surviving in the gutter. My smile hides what I really think,” laughed Hal.

“We don’t have to break any trap. Garth will protect us,” pronounced Archie.

It was time for Max to truly get to know the executives. He did this through one-on-one interviews. The problem with group sessions is that some would just grandstand and others would not say what they really thought. The one-on-ones gave him the opportunity for gaining much further depth on their individual state with respect to the Visual Trap. As well it gave Max valuable insight into who was part of the problem and who would be part of the solution. He would definitely establish the amount of guidance and transformation that they would each require.

Now the posturing in the one-on-one sessions was predictable, however, session by session; the current state was beginning to crystallize in Max’s mind. This team was solidly caught in the trap. Max could now dive into the first core area of the busting process which would be communications.

Max would focus on both the executive’s individual and the group’s communications. Breaking the trap for the team meant shaking up the executive communication web. This team was going to be a complex web. However, one very worth understanding and requiring effective intervention. Max would focus primarily on an individual basis in the early stages. Who to start with? 

Before Max talked to any more executives he would have that chat with Sophia the snake. She had made the offer. Executive team communications are so driven by believe it or not, the CEO’s or President’s executive assistant. Max was always amazed at the power this individual seemed to garner in many organizations.

Max cruised down the executive wing and inquired if Sophia had a few minutes to discuss communications. He got the usual answer about being extremely busy and is this really important. He knew that this was just part of the ritual. Underneath Sophia was dying to show Max just how much she actually knew. How much power she actually carried. When they finally were settled in a small meeting room connected to Tag’s office, Sophia was itching to flaunt herself.

Sophia pronounced, “Really only Tag can use this room but well obviously you can see I’ve got some pull.”

Here we go thought Max. “So, I guess you carry a bit of weight around here?” Max inquired.

“Who me! I’m just Tag’s assistant. I do what I’m told. Well, I do have to keep him in line at times.”

“Tough role,” said Max. “Performing all those activities for Tag.”

“And the board members. They’re always seeking me out for favors. More so Garth and Tanya.” Sophia paused and whispered before going on. “You know. The three of us are friends.”

Max thought to himself how quickly she made sure he knew about that. Then he asked, “How does Tag communicate with the board?” 

“Tag and Leo talk a lot. Garth barely gives Tag the time of day. Garth communicates with Tanya the tigress, Tag’s wife, more than he interacts with Tag. Well, I guess they do belong to the same Tennis Club so they have that in common”

“How does Tanya interact with the other board members?” Max asked. There were some strange political winds blowing around Jungle Tech. To understand it a little better would not hurt thought Max.

“Tanya goes along with what Tag and Leo say. Although, she barely looks at them when she is forced to speak. Tanya and Garth focus more on their tennis games and Samson the Siberian tiger, then about Jungle Tech. Samson is the tennis pro down at the club. That devilishly good-looking Samson is a master of the love game. Samson could sweep any female off their feet, if you like that suntanned, curly blond hair, blue eye kind of look. As a snake, I much prefer rhinos to tigers. Oh, I shouldn’t be hissing these things.”                

“How does Tag interact with his executive’s on a one-on-one basis?”

“Well Rock the rhino is always coming by with his figures. What a good-looking rhino. Real nice animal too. Tag and Zelda spend a bit of time. Zelda is usually just keeping Tag up to date on some customer issue. Tag doesn’t roar as much when Zelda’s around. She calms everyone down.”

“How about Sales and Marketing?” asked Max?

“Leanne the leopard and Tag have limited communications. Leanne is awfully busy with constantly new marketing programs and all. She’s smart. Don’t know why so many hate her? Now Hal the hyena is just a character. Real party animal. Fun all the way. I think he avoids Tag.”

“How about the rest?”

“The other executives all come and chat with Tag about the same amount. Tag seems to be a little easier on Paula the parrot And Camilla the cougar. But he should not take it easy on Camilla. She’s such a stuffy one. Now with Archie the ape, that’s another story. They truly have some interesting sessions. Tag tends to be yelling at Archie about continually bringing problems, never solutions. Archie never figures it out.”

“When the executive are in a group; what’s it like?” inquired Max.

“Not very organized. That’s for sure. They spend a lot of time setting up slide shows. Often the technology breaks or falters. They’re always criticizing each other’s presentations. I give them one thing; all are really improving their quality of multi media shows with all the pretty colors, animations and cartoons. It does get boring between the extended slide shows, the fooling around by Hal the hyena, Archie the ape, Edward the elephant and the rants that Tag goes on. That’s pretty much the meeting. Don’t know why they have an agenda. They never follow it.”

“Do they ever get through the material on a particular item and make decisions?” inquired Max.

“Not very often. In the end we’re pressed for time and a real important issue is decided very quickly or no decision is made. Or Tag just gets mad and makes the call.”

“Thank you for the information Sophia. As we proceed I’ll really need your help in making those meetings more effective.” said Max.

“I’ll have to check with the powers that be.” smiled Sophia. “But I’ll help out if I can.”

Max and Sophia went their separate ways. She was in a hurry. Max heard Sophia dialing her cell phone. Definitely communicating but with who? She was a slippery one.

“Hi Sophia here.” She whispered. “The monkey is asking lots of questions. What do you want me to do?”

“Just feed him any garbage.” Garth the gorilla spoke. “Just make sure you keep me up to speed on everything. I’ll be taking over one day and receiving advanced communications is something I value.”       

Sophia cleared her voice as she got the message. “Yes sir. I understand.”

“When I take over I will look forward to working extremely closely with an incredibly sexy snake such as yourself. It could be good for your career and good for me,” suggestively spoke Garth.

Sophia’s skin began to crawl. She thought that this game was getting out of hand but she was in it pretty deep.

Chapter 10 – Animal to Animal  

Rock was walking by Sophia’s desk on his way to Tag’s office. Sophia decided to utilize the oldest trick in the book. She accidentally knocked some papers on to the floor to gain Rock’s attention. Rock being the gentle rhino that he was; immediately picked the papers up, finding time to check out the trappings Sophia had to offer. As well Sophia eyed Rock’s muscular body; saying very loudly for all to hear.

“Thank you Rock. You’re so sweet! How can I ever reward you?” Then giving him that wicked laugh, “Rock, I hope you never free yourself completely of that Visual Trap.”

Right off Max had implemented a process where each of the executive team would have their assistants log all their major communications for one week which included cell time, one-on-one sessions, staff and customer meetings, etc. Gracey the giraffe consolidated all the data and an enlightening summary report was generated for each executive. Then Max and the particular executive could sit down and discuss the findings. Through this, the process of building their individualized development plans in the area of communications would commence. Edward was the first.

Edward the elephant had cruised in to work early this morning; what a commute it had been! He was weaving in and out of traffic attempting to pick up those precious seconds. Spilled his Grande Starbucks coffee so he stopped off and purchased another. Must have sent eight text messages on his Blackberry while speeding along the highway. Almost missed his turnoff. But he made it safely.

While he was driving, Edward also took the opportunity to talk to one of his employees on the cell but it was difficult to understand what they were saying as the reception was horrid. The BBC news was on the radio and he was attempting to beat that light. And well he’ll catch up to them another time. Edward expressed his frustration with his employees as they just don’t get it. Don’t they understand he’s a busy elephant? Not easy looking good in this corporate jungle when you are his size. Edward wishes his employees were more skilled at understanding what he required. He is always needed to baby them. Why did he always get the high maintenance animals?

Edward likes to get in before the other animals to avoid all that idle chit chat. Wastes his time. Today he’s just shutting his flimsy door. He buried himself in front of his computer and will complete the presentation for Tag. He’ll also analyze the monthly stats. Maybe he’ll conduct a little research. Oh and he remembers he has that meeting with the monkey. He’ll make short work of that one or maybe he should just cancel.

Edward sends Max an email about cancelling. Even though Max was just down the hall and he could walk down there. But that will just waste an inordinate amount of his precious time as Max might want to chit chat.

Edward certainly knew that he could come across as a bit of an arrogant elephant. Been known to put on the airs with others in the office. With the way he shows off his knowledge of opera and fine wine; his brand new Hummer; and his membership in that exclusive polo club. He also wore Armani suits, monogrammed Egyptian cotton shirts and those overpriced Harry Rosen ties.

But behind all the flashiness were some truths. He needed the Hummer so he could fit comfortably behind the wheel. Armani was the only suit that could be tailored to fit his size. His monogrammed initials, EEE, were on his shirts because it was free with the custom made shirts he needed to fit his girth. He used to be EEE III, but since his grandfather and father died tragically in the Ivory War, he simply called himself Edward Earl Elephant, rather than Edward Earl Elephant the Third.  Some truths were hard and Edward masked the pain with operas, polo, wine and luxuries his grandfather and father never had the opportunity to enjoy. He would never want anyone to know where he truly came from or how shaky his personal finances were. He was afraid of idle chit chat as it might lead to the truth.   

Ten minutes pass and a message is sent from Max asking why. Edward replies with another note elaborating on his excuse. He grumbles, “can’t he see I’m too important for this communication stuff?”

Another ten minutes pass, a knock comes at Edward’s shaky door. Max asks, “Hi Edward I don’t understand your reason for cancelling.”

Edward speaks in his firmest tone, “Just a minute I’m very busy.”  He then changed his screen from yesterday’s polo scores to a spreadsheet.

Edward states, “Isn’t it clear old boy, from my note?”

“No it wasn’t,” said Max. “What’s the real reason you don’t want to meet?”

“I have an important presentation to get ready for Tag. He likes the way I do my slides.”

“you take a lot of pride in that,” asked Max?

Edward stuck out his chest as he responds; “I pride myself on my slidesmanship. Any leader worth his salt in today’s business jungle better be handy with the pictures and the multi media.”

Max inquires, “You mentioned some important research in your note. What’s the purpose of this research? How does this issue fit in with Jungle Tech’s strategic objectives?”

Giving a look of disgust, Edward replies, “It kind of fits with our new direction. Well, whether it does or doesn’t. It’s pretty darn obvious that this research might be important some day. It’s so clear to me. Can’t you see it?”    

“No! What’s obvious is your making excuses, spoke Max. “Tell me why you are so nervous about this meeting?”

Edward pauses and mumbles, “Max old boy, I am brilliant but I am a terrible communicator. I need help”

“Thank you Edward, I know that wasn’t easy for you. With time and effort we can improve your communications. Why don’t you relax and shut your eyes?”

This was the lengthiest face-to-face dialogue Edward had engaged in all day. There were a series of cell calls, a couple of video conferences, a grunt or two while heading out for lunch and a scattering of  three word conversations in the hallway that day. He also spends several hours on emails with some of them definitely not being work related. There was little real interaction. Edward was a bright elephant and had progressed a long way at Jungle Tech due to his technical brilliance. However, his skills in the communications area left something to be desired.

Max also realized that Edward was a typical victim of frazzing, the often frantic and ineffective multitasking in today’s animal kingdom. This was exemplified as this morning he heard another monkey swinging through the trees while answering his PDA and eating a banana. The effect on the animals was that they would sometimes forget important details, not focus on the truly important business and leaving them at the end of the day frazzled. This starts taking an emotional toll on the animals and affects their business work as well as their personal lives.

Max thought how Edward’s communication skills were not that unusual for many leaders and professionals these days. The balance among the natural communication modes is heavily weighted to the visual. Visual is king for many. But Edward wanted to change and that was half the battle.   

Max thought how the auditory and tactile modes of communication are being utilized to much lesser degrees. We spend an inordinate amount of time in front of screens of many sizes. Whether PDA’s, computers or overheads with presentation slides. We do listen but it’s at a surface level. The expression, “We all can hear but is anyone really listening” holds so true in today’s world. Individuals have become so visual in our organizations. There are few listening and almost no one can actually sense what is taking place around them. Too much of the communication is one-way and often misinterpreted.

Leanne smugly pranced into Zelda’s office one afternoon with her brightest smile determined to make a point. “Zelda, your Customer Care area seems to be running okay. Certainly not near as well as my Marketing area. It’s very surprising you are doing as well as you are; seeing how your communication skills would be seen as second rate to mine. You know they call me queen of the slides.”

Zelda cautiously spoke, “Yes Leanne. You have some unique skills.”

“My wonderful communication skills are just another example of what exceptional leadership potential I have,” bragged Leanne. “I think it is becoming more and more obvious to those who count, who will make the best President. And you know I’m close with those who count. You on the other hand are not so close. I’m practically a shoe in for the next Presidential opening in the jungle. ”

“You certainly know the right folks,” stated Zelda.

“I’m glad you see it that way and know your place in the jungle,” Leanne said with a patronizing smile. “I know someone who is not well informed might think your skills are suited to a higher role. However you should be happy just how far you have come for a zebra. I would entertain keeping some one like you on when I become a President. Even though your multi media shows are too short and you don’t need to use all those words.” 

Max was continually amazed when he would be sitting in someone’s office and they would have a visual diagram in front of them. The individual will commence speaking to the screen or paper and claim that they cannot function without a picture staring them in the face. When Max explains, he is blind and could they please describe the picture, the words do not flow particularly easy. Max asks them to just use their own words to describe the concept. There are generally a few brief words utilized unless they happen to have a rehearsed dialogue for the diagram. And those rehearsed spiels sure are apparent.

Max reflected on how the skill to reasonably articulate a simple concept through the use of words is dramatically diminishing. Never mind the skill to actually listen and comprehend those concepts and ideas.  

When Max would ask these individuals on how they feel about their diagram or a related issue, concept, strategy or problem; the words on most occasions did not flow. As far as tactile dialogue they have difficulty expressing what they feel. The real meaning is often lost. Those tactile, feeling or sensory words are like pulling teeth. This is not just males that are having difficulty expressing feelings concerning some sensitive issue, thinks Max. This involves both genders. It is a business issue where our feelings should help drive our intuition, which subsequently assists in driving our creativity and strategic perspective.

Max worked through the first wave of one-on-one communication development sessions with each of the executives. Although the executives had varying communication styles, they all had strengths and areas for improvement. They also all had one thing in common, a strong bias to the visual mode of communication. Zelda was closest to any form of balance. Paula, Hal, Leanne, Archie, Edward and Tag had it bad. Rock and Camilla were not quite as locked on the visual, however they still needed a lot of work.

Now two of the executives were not particularly enthusiastic about the process. Hal the hyena called Max in his office one day and spoke with his firmest of tones. “Look little buddy. I don’t buy into all this crap. I’m a sales guy and I know what I am doing. That’s where it ends.”

“What do you mean?” asked Max.

“I’m here to sell. Maybe we will break this trap and then get into transforming things. That’s great but until I see it reflected in increased commissions, it’s all B.S. to me. I get paid to sell and need to spend all my time to focus on that.” He is a greedy one thought Max. Only thinks of himself. Hal continued, “I don’t see why I have to be involved in all this. That’s for the others. I can sell anybody anything I want.”

“I don’t doubt it. I think you are a great sales guy. Are you also a great Sales V.P.?” asked Max.

“As long as Tag, Leo or the big guy Garth sees me that way. It really doesn’t matter whether I am or not,” replied Hal.

Max reflected, “I could waste my time trying to convince you of the value of breaking the Visual Trap. But that would waste both your time and mine. Right!”    

“You are getting the picture little buddy.”

“If I’d tried to have it mandated by Tag, Leo or someone you’d find some bull shit reason why it’s not working for you?” inquired Max.

“Absolutely! I’d out maneuver you. I’m the best office politician you’ll ever see.”

“Sure! You’re great but you only can get by so long on the political trail. Your Sales results aren’t great and lagging behind the competition. This might eventually catch up to you. But okay, so if I let you off on your individual communications plan will you cooperate with the rest of the process and back it as best as you can, whatever that entails. In other words please try to limit your overt sabotage.”

“I could. But I’ve been known to lie,” laughed Hal.

Max shrugged his shoulders and stated, “Well, if that’s the best we’re going to get. Good enough for me.”

“I see we have an understanding,” said Hal with a smirk on his face.

“Guess we do. Oh, I forgot to mention that there is an additional component that has been added to each of the executive bonus plans. It is a development incentive for breaking the trap. We’re working on the details. I will roll it out to you in the next couple of days. I’ll just put you down for the appropriate amount.” Max made a zero with his fingers and held it up for Hal to see.

Hal jumped out of his chair. His smirk was wiped off his face. “Zero! What the hell do you mean? How much is this thing worth? You have to cut me in.”        

“I will give you your share if you earn it. No games,” smiled Max.

Hal began to yell. “Shit! I am a busy…” 

“Pipe down. Save the bullshit for some one else. You are a classic sales animal but you are good. You could be a great Sales executive. But you can’t take it to the next level if you first don’t learn to listen. This stuff you call crap could quite possibly take you to the next level. I will say it again; clearly you have the most to gain from a transformed Jungle Tech, from a financial perspective. You just can’t see past your snout right now. But there will be no transformation if the trap is not broken.”

The permanent smile was truly gone from Hal. No one had ever been this blunt with him. He was pissed. He remembered one of those marriage counselors tried to tell him he did not listen but they were never this blunt. He could not remember which counselor it was or even which marriage it was. But he had heard it before. Maybe this monkey was right. But he was still pissed.

Max carried on, “Instead of fuming at me and thinking about your revenge. You should be saying what do I need to do and mean it.”

“I hate you little monkey.” Hal said. “But I see your point.”

“You are a smart one,” replied Max. “How about if I book a session with you. But you and I are going to meet at your favorite watering hole and start off with a cigar. Will that work for you?”

“Now you’re talking. Hey, this could be fun,” as the permanent smile rolled back on Hal’s face.

Now the individualized communication plan was similar to pulling teeth with Archie the ape. He did attend the one-on-one session with Max but only in body, not in mind or spirit. According to Archie, everybody else had a problem with communicating except himself. Max wondered just how Archie climbed to where he was in the organization. Archie, of all the executives had attained the least benefit from the process. If only he would stop pounding his chest while he spoke. Archie had some of his own apelike concepts and he espoused them continuously because he thought he was the smartest and most evolved animal in the entire jungle.

“I see spending time on communications as a waste of time. I don’t give a dam what customers and employees think. I’ll tell them what to think that is what being an executive is all about.”  

In the same session, Archie had blurted out his frustration with two of the communication concepts. He said, “Look monkey. I don’t listen to others. Even to my wife. It’s just gibberish coming out of most animals mouths anyway.” Archie spoke in a gruff voice. “In fact you’ve got me to talk more than I have in years. That makes me angry.”

Max commented, “Anger is a feeling. You have feelings.”

“I feel nothing. That is for wimps. I’m strong. I see myself as the toughest in the jungle.” 

Max responded, “So you don’t listen and don’t feel. Any chance of us changing that stand?”

“Never little monkey.” Laughed Archie. What you see is what you get. Oh you can’t see me.” That sent Archie into a further fit of laughter.

keeping them on track. This individual communication plan focused on strategies each would utilize to balance the communication modes. As well as associated methods they could follow to become much more effective communicators with individuals, within teams and within the organization.
 
Even Tag the tiger had worked closely with Max to build his individual development plan in the communications area. Max had Tag focus heavily on improving his listening skills. In one of their sessions Max blindfolded Tag and carried on with the discussion. Tag, was lost at first. However he began to adjust relatively quickly.

Max was also encouraging Tag to tap into what his intuition was telling him. Max would ask him to use it where appropriate. Don’t have to live by it but understand its signals. Intuition is simply the subconscious assisting us in the rapid decision process. Real asset if a leader knows how to utilize it effectively.

Tag had admitted after one particular rewarding meeting with Max, “I wish I’d discovered this real listening along time ago. Maybe, Tanya, my wife was right. She would say I wasn’t really listening to her. I didn’t feel things the way I should have. But, unfortunately it’s too late.”

“Are you sure it’s too late?” 

“We hardly ever talk now. She’s so wrapped up in the club and whatever else. I’ve got Jungle Tech. We just don’t connect anymore. I actually tried to connect with her last night and thought for a second, well maybe. Then it was like she thought of something or someone else and the shield was up again. Guess I deserve it for my inattentiveness over all those years.”

 
Chapter 11 – Animals in a Herd


Tag, Rock and Camilla were in a group meeting when that seductive Sophia paraded in and suggestively handed Rock copies he had requested and said “Will there be anything else Rock? Anything you want.”

Rock slipped back into that other form of a Visual Trap. Camilla tried to fire some snide remark at Sophia to break the spell, however she was tongue tied. Camilla just flushed, fumed inside and swore it was time for action.

Max had been spending massive amounts of time with the executives on a one-on-one basis and subsequently being invited to attend many of the team meetings being lead by an executive. These Jungle Tech meetings were very similar to those in any other organization Max had experienced. Organizations want high performance teams and that is difficult to accomplish, when there are so many highly ineffective team meetings. Jungle Tech wanted high performance as well. But that will not happen when their meetings were floundering in the Visual Trap.

Max thought how it was just another typical day at Jungle Tech. The proliferation of meetings was set up for all to enjoy. There were the engaging face-to-face get together, the audio conferences and the stifling video conferences. The energetic animals have all come prepared to show their stuff.

In those face-to-face meetings, the laptops are set up and the slide shows are ready. The duel begins. Who has the prettiest slides, who has the coolest colors and who can have the latest technology frill that has everyone envious. Let’s not forget who receives the badge of honor for having the longest presentation and if you can’t go over 100 slides, well, you’re not even in the game! Oh and Max forgot one important point, who can have the slide with the most information on it? Usually a spread sheet that gives everyone eye strain. Has them leaning forward in their chairs.

This was not any sour grapes on Max’s part due to the fact he can’t see these visual aids. Max would love too. However, it is a case where he was able to intensely listen to a multitude of meetings being taken in a dysfunctional direction. Primarily due to the fact the visual aids began driving the meeting not the team or the leader. Max wishes everyone could just shut their eyes in the next meeting they are attending. Really listen. You will be fascinated as to what’s taking place. How dependent many individuals and many teams have become from the visual perspective.

Max received a talking text on his cell from Paula who he knew was in an executive meeting. “Wish I had an MBA.” Max thinks she is not concentrating.

Next Max’s mind wandered to those audio conferences with tools such as net meeting; the 150 polished slides in a deck that was hurriedly emailed out 2 minutes before the meeting started. It’s much the same as the face-to-face show. The presentations become even more detailed. Let’s throw multiple Excel spreadsheets with a few hundred lines of data on each to dazzle the crowd.

But of course we would not be a time effective professional if we were not checking our emails while the audio conference is in progress. Executives can get away with checking emails or not actually being on the other end but have the phone line live; while the meeting is carrying on. Then coming in with that insightful question that makes it appear they were there all the time. Of course, many face-to-face meetings are totally dysfunctional as each individual spends more time reviewing their emails or playing on their tech toys while the session proceeds. They just have to be a little subtler about the fact than in the audio conference.

There is no doubt the level of concentration and quality of discussion in the audio conference is very questionable. It helps if the participants have some slides to focus on. However, a straight audio conference with no visual tools leaves those visual dominant individuals unconnected. A number of people drop off the call using flimsy excuses. Others are working on unrelated activities, are totally bored or they are just doing some good old fashion daydreaming. It’s truly amazing what goes on in many of these audio conferences.

Max remembered how yesterday Hal and himself had been sitting together in Hal’s office while attending an audio conference led by Marketing. It was a new product launch. Minutes into the meeting Max heard Hal lightly snoring. However Hal had forgotten to press the mute button. It had been another late night for Hal.

Now Max chuckles as he ponders those video conferences taking place. Has that equipment ever really worked? What a stiff crowd, those cameras rotating around sure inhibits spirited dialogue. There is definitely a reduction in the slide show length, sometimes! They may as well have those meetings without sound; Max had attended a few that were held that way.

Video conferences are some of the most uncomfortable meetings that Max had attended. Stilted tones, dead air and those were when the technology was working. Everyone dresses nice. Got to look sharp as we are on camera. No matter how often individuals participate in these video conferences, the connection between and among participants is limited. They have a purpose; we need to find the most effective use for them.

Another talking text message comes to Max from Archie in the same executive meeting Paula was in. “Tag on rant. I will be late.”

Excellence in meetings requires someone to lead them, follow an agenda, narrow down the presentations to primarily exception information, make decisions and formulate and document action items with individuals assigned as responsible. These action items need to be followed up on in subsequent meetings. And most importantly, the participants need to connect. One-way communication especially visual  greatly reduces group effectiveness and increases stress.

Max felt privileged to be invited to one of Leanne the leopard’s, marketing team meetings. He wanted to discover where she is at with respect to her group communications. Leanne was very bright but a poor individual communicator. Leanne had the "me" syndrome. She tended to relate almost everything to herself. This made it a challenge to connect on an individual basis. Leanne wanted to pitch her vision for marketing at Jungle Tech and show her employees where Marketing was heading. She wanted to paint the picture for them so that they could see the vision.

Leanne gets the team crowded into a small meeting room and then lights, camera, action. Leanne and Sophia fussed over these slides all night. Leanne is ready. Might be the best work she’s ever done, she thought. Even included spoken audio clips when certain slides are up, it saves Leanne having to talk too much. Also, filled in with some rock, hip-hop, rap and even country music playing while slides are showing, so no one can be bored. This should be a first class show. She will end the session with a final slide that asks if there are any questions.

Just prior to Leanne getting started she whispers in Max’s ear. “The other executives pale in comparison to my presentation skills. Watch how a future President handles this crowd.”  

Leanne kicks it off. The presentation whizzes by, Leanne is done in record time. She asked the group to hold the questions until the end, so she did not expect any interruptions. Leanne certainly utilized her slides like a crutch. She also tends to talk at the group or tell the group, rather then building some semblance of conversation or dialogue.

The crowd was dumb founded. Leanne had inundated them with content. They were in shock. They did enjoy parts of the slick slide show. Great music. they were really not too sure about it all. A couple of the more visual communicators absorbed greater degrees of the content than the less visual communicators. However in general, the group did not internalize the content. Some of the questions that arose among the participants were forgotten by the end of the presentation and anyway it did not appear as if their input or concurrence was genuinely desired by Leanne. The dialogue unfolded as follows.

Leanne begins packing up to leave. “Well, that’s my vision. Now that you have seen the future, any questions?”

Silence from the group.

“Must be a couple of questions,” Leanne says. “Or I must be an amazing communicator.”

The group Chuckles under their breath.

Leanne boasts as she is walking out the door, “Guess I am great!”

Max asks the  question of the group, “What did you think?”

the group’s comments are along the lines of amused comic relief. “That Leanne comes up with a new slide trick each time she presents to us. How does she expect us to ever understand what she’s talking about. We’re not stupid, but we’re not mind readers. She sure can’t explain concepts with words. Do you notice how stilted she is. It’s as if she never really gets passionate about the vision or where we are going. Leanne can’t feel it and she cannot describe it, so I can’t connect with what she’s talking about. When Leanne tries to describe a concept she sounds like she’s reading off a cue card. It’s so artificial. Oh well let’s just salute it and it will go away over time just like the previous ones. After all, it does not really involve us. I remember one of her staff once challenging her on a point in a team meeting and that coming back to him as not being a team player in his performance review.”

As Max is listening to the comments he realizes these are fairly standard reviews after many presentations these days. We are missing the boat. We are connecting with a fraction of the groups. Time for leaders to wake up!

Max was arranging for an expert in the area of natural presentations to deliver additional training for the team. Again all modes of communications would be focused on. Also it was time to bring Paula the parrot into the picture. Along with Tag, she would be key to this executive team with respect to how they interact as a group. She was going to be the glue that held it together. Paula’s assertiveness would have to grow and some effective process changes must take place. Paula would have to find strength she never knew she had.

Chapter 12 – Executive Glue 

Archie grunted, “Leanne, one of my ape friends told me if communications can be disrupted, the battle is won.”

Paula the parrot had scheduled two hours with Max to discuss how the executive team communicated as a group. Right off, Paula began singing the prettiest song about the wonderful things they were doing as a team.
“Tag even does a great video conference,” said Paula. “He does such a fantastic job of getting everyone’s lengthy presentations up there.”

“Paula let this old monkey ramble for a while.” Max leaned back in his
Chair. “Tag is beginning to understand the error of his ways. We need one executive to assist Tag and to become the glue for this team.”

Paula chirped, “what does this glue executive do?”

“Takes on more of a facilitator role when the team is meeting. Usually it’s not the leader as they are quite engaged with the issues. It’s that animal in and out of the meeting that binds the team. Sophia can assist in this role from an admin perspective if she wants too.”

“Can’t see how I would do that,” commented Paula.

“You have what it takes,” stated Max. “You have to want it. You will have to work on your assertiveness. You will have to break the Visual Trap yourself. And you will have to promote trust with in the team.”

“Wow! That’s tough with this group,” said Paula. “Will this group ever really trust each other?”

“Maybe one day. But for now we have to get this team moving right on the trust continuum,” Max flashes up a diagram on his talking laptop, (Figure 12.1) “indicates the relationship between distrust, conditional trust and unconditional trust. Beginning the process of moving right on the continuum is critical to the effectiveness of communications in any executive team. It is critical to the Visual Busting Process. We’ll be dealing with it in greater detail at a later phase of the process.”

Figure 12.1 Trust Continuum

“Unfortunately, our team would be over at distrust,” commented Paula.

“Another reason for that distrust is if we took all the communications delivered within this executive team; the largest percentage is delivered relying on vision. They use relatively less auditory and even less tactile. This group spends hours attempting to get the spin just right and ensuring all the latest multi media tricks are utilized. Guess what, it may help but the mark is missed one more time. We connect with people primarily through the use of tactile and then through listening. The words and tone are critical.”

“Most of our executives want their shows to look trendy, sexy, even glittery” remarked Paula.

Max pulled up another diagram on his laptop. “This diagram (Figure 12.2) indicates the connection chain illustrating the importance of tactile, auditory and visual in the whole process.”

Figure 12.2 Connection Chain

“Wow, the tactile forms the strongest connection Followed by the auditory” declares Paula.

“Yes!” Max forged on, “When actual words and tone are utilized effectively, it can create a strong connection. However let’s take presentations for example; it is disappointing to listen to the quality of speakers in this executive team. They are slaves to their technology. The slides, charts, etc. dominate the show. The visual aids become the centre point, seldom the speaker. There is a great deal of focus on the visual component. Minimal focus on the auditory and tactile. Messages and connections are lost. The training on natural presentations scheduled for early next week will sure help.”

“But for many of our executives they will script the presentation  down to the last detail. Even words and tone. That should work,” remarked Paula.

“That results in manipulation which many see through immediately. Genuineness being planned or staged is obvious to most. Artificial runs rampant through the presentation. Leaders applaud themselves. Limited connections are made one more time.”

Paula received a call on her cell and stepped out of the room.

When Paula returns she was distracted. Paula nervously asks, “Can we reschedule? I need to fly.”  

“On one condition. You’ll help me facilitate a discussion with the executive team on ways we can improve their group communications?”

Paula quickly agrees and they part company.

Within a couple of days Max and Paula are sitting with the executive team. Max asked Tag not to be there. Paula was reluctant to attend without Tag but Max encouraged her to come and listen. As she would be leading the plan to improve this area.

The executives were very frank. They held nothing back with regards to the manner in which they communicated as a group. The issue of trust, manipulation, lack of process, and lack of connection were all raised. Complements were given out for certain aspects of the process. All the good and bad comments were all points which could help improve the group process. However for some unknown reason towards the very end of the meeting, Leanne and Archie took a couple of very inappropriate shots at Paula’s Animal Resources area and her role in the Visual Busting Process. Max managed to cut them off but not on time. Their intent was obvious; they wanted to truly ruffle Paula’s feathers. It worked.

Paula the parrot went out of the meeting in shock. She was thankful that she could not form real tears or she would have been crying. She took a lot of pride in her work. Max was trying to re-assure her as they were leaving the meeting. However Leanne shouted out; “Paula, just face the fact that no one likes you.” 

Paula began shaking and took flight back to her office muttering, “I quit, I quit!”

Archie high-fived Leanne and grunted, “Mission accomplished.”

The two chuckled and Leanne confidently said. “You see she will always choose the middle option when it comes to: fight, flight or flow.”    

Max was in his work space when a voice whispered. “Max, it’s Camilla. Got a second?”

“Absolutely, Camilla what can I do for you?”

“Camilla clears her voice, “Just wanted to gain some of your council on an issue. Just take a minute. Hook on, and let’s proceed to my office.”

They were settled in Camilla’s comfortable surroundings when she spoke again, “I want to ensure everything we say is in complete confidence?”

“Most definitely” responded Max.

“Do you recall in my individual communication session you asked me why in the majority of instances, I’m quite formal or professional in regards to my oral communications? However, occasionally I become extremely flustered. Especially with the executive team.” Cautiously spoke Camilla.

“Yes, I did ask that question” replied Max.

“In your experience can one’s feelings cloud one’s objectiveness towards their job and how they think?” asked Camilla. “I mean even how they act?”

“Of course.” Replied Max, “Tell me more. What do you mean?”

“This is strictly confidential. I think when I’m with the executive group; my mind tends to focus on someone other than the issue and my entire thought process is affected.” Camilla pauses to compose herself. “I’m a professional. I pride myself on my objectivity. It’s as if I have glue in my mouth and I become tongue-tied.”

“What clouds your ability to communicate?” probes Max.

Camilla squirms in her chair, fiddles with her hair and reapplies her lipstick. Almost a minute passes and she has not yet responded.
Camilla smiles and whispers, “I can’t believe it. I have always been so professional. This is embarrassing.” 

“Shows you’re a real cougar. Nothing wrong with that,” commented Max. “And remember feelings need to be expressed to be validated.”

“I could never do that. That’s for sure. I’ve been thinking of leaving Jungle Tech.” 

“Please give this some time Camilla. These things have a way of resolving themselves. You’re a key part of Jungle Tech. One other thing. Is there anything different you’d like to do in your life? New hobby, trip, new club or charity work.” Max asked. “Might take your mind off of the problem. This is not an uncommon occurrence for workaholics.”

“Let me think about that. You’re right. I am a bit of a workaholic. I think that’s because when I immigrated I did not know anyone and worked really hard trying to prove myself,” Camilla reflected. “You speak of balance in communications. Similar concept. I should be thinking about a balance in life. Thank you, Max. You’ve given me something to ponder other then revenge.”

Chapter 13 - Reach Out and Touch Someone 

“Samson you are such a character,” spoke Tanya seductively as she flirtively touched his big broad shoulder, sending a spark threw her veins. “You make me laugh. Now let’s get back to tennis.”

Max had talked Paula into staying on at Jungle Tech. He had a few intense sessions with Paula on assertiveness. Paula was now ready to really listen in the area of group communications. Paula and the team had also truly enjoyed their training on natural presentations. They were beginning to step out from behind their visual toys. She turned off her cell phone, forwarded her desk phone to voicemail and turned away from her computer screen. “Max, please talk about natural communications. I want to get my head around this concept. I am determined to be the glue for this team.”

Max smiled and exclaimed, “Excellent! Let me give you some history. There was a time and that would be a long time ago. One could spend time with a group and anticipate that our natural balance with respect to communications would occur. One could expect approximately 40% of individuals would have a primary mode of communication that is visual, verses auditory and tactile. There was a slight bias to the visual. However nothing compared to today’s bias.” 

“That was before my time,” stated Paula.

“Well, I was a lot younger back then,” laughed Max. “With the explosion of technologies such as the TV and then the emergence of personal computers through the 1980’s and 1990’s; those with visual as their primary mode of communications had increased to approximately 60%. This according to my own inexact science. It has gotten progressively worse and will continue to as we become slaves to our technology. With the absolute explosion of computers, PDA’s, etc. That visual ratio I find is now approximately 80%. We have become even more dependent on technical tools; the majority requires a high degree of visual focus from an early age.” (Table 13.1) 

Table 13.1. Evolution of Communication Modes
(In percentages)

Max enjoyed another drink of H2O and carried on. “Our passion for more and faster communications is driving us to utilize highly visual techniques and approaches in many cases. We are focusing on the efficiency of communications, rather than the effectiveness of that communication. For example, when the employee is asked why he resigned in an email when his boss was just down the hall. The answer was "that’s the way my boss communicated with me.”

“What about the growth of cell phones?” questioned Paula, “It’s an auditory tool?” 

“Granted one of the exceptions to this explosion of visual communications is in the utilization of the cell phone,” Max replied. “It has grown rapidly and would not be considered a visual tool. However, have you listened to the actual amount of listening that occurs with the average conversation? The overall quality is lacking but the quantity certainly does not. As well with text messaging, internet access and built in cameras, cell phones are turning into as much a visual tool as an auditory tool. The other fascinating thing is the difference of the quality of conversation between individuals on a cell verses a regular wire line phone. It’s due to the fact when on the cell we are most likely multi-tasking verses when on a wire line phone. Outside of the cell, the majority of other technological advances in communications are visually oriented.”

Paula excitedly says, “so what’s the problem. If we are all becoming more visual, let’s just communicate with more visual tools and most will get the message.”

“That’s the problem,” Replied Max. “Then we are missing the keys to innovative and creative thought; strategic and tactical thinking; and real natural connections. It will leave us with more emptiness and ineptness then we have ever experience. We need all those senses.”

Tag knocks, waltzes in and says; “Sorry, Max I need to chat with you.”

Paula asks, “Is it urgent?” Tag shakes his head and smiles. Paula states, “Tag, you can have him when we are done.”

“Excellent! I like the new Paula. Catch you later Max, bye.”

“Let’s get back on track.” Paula smiles and asks, “Can you talk about the other types of natural communications?”

Max replied. “So let’s start with auditory, which is sound perception and hearing. A big part of this involves words. Words have incredible power to create and build, but also can damage and destroy. They are symbols and alone they mean little. Put together in a meaningful way they can effectively communicate thoughts, feelings and build connections. Even in our technical world, it is the one-on-one contact which is the basic element behind our social foundation. Fundamentally through our speech, we share our values, ideas, plans of action and feelings.”

Paula chirped, “Many times words can even sort out the confusion that surrounds us.”

“Yes it can. However so many are heavily concentrating on what they’re seeing and somewhat on their next few words that real listening suffers. Also, how many presentations today have all sorts of music, interesting noises and one or two word scripts throughout the slide show. They are great attention getters. Filler, but little substance. No shortage of noise and distractions out there. However there is a dramatic reduction in true listening. We have two ears and one mouth for a reason.”

“Isn’t that the truth,” Said Paula. “We are either talking or thinking about ourselves or what we might say next.”

“Let’s go to the one mode of communication for many that is melting away like an iceberg in the desert,” Says Max. “The tactile method. Touch is a key element of tactile. Touch connects us quicker than any other mode of communications. It is the most intimate of the senses. It brings all of us together when words will have broken down or failed us. Unfortunately the sense of touch is becoming unfashionable in some circles. With the awkwardness brought about by the sexual harassment issue; individuals may be more cautious about a simple hug or pat on the shoulder. Also, with the threat of global germ transmission even a simple hand shake may be frowned upon. Finally in some fast paced cultures, there is no time taken for the tone, inflection and pitch in the voice. This true listening requires real concentration to gain a true sense of what the individual is communicating.”

Paula interjects, “The tactile is pretty important to you.”

“Yes” says Max, “the tactile is very important to the blind. Unfortunately, valuing the tactile sense would be seen as being a wimp in certain macho organization cultures. Why do we love email? How much tactile stimulus do we receive from email? Minuscule amounts! We make our communication short and often fail to convey our true intent or feelings.”  

“We are really missing out when we don’t reach out and touch someone,” joked Paula.

Max had a chuckle and carried on, “The other magic of touch is when there is a difference between the logic and emotion of two individuals. Touch is most likely to begin the process of constructively rebuilding, through actually talking and listening with the other individual. Rather then engaging in additional unconstructive dialogue.” 

Suddenly there’s a knock at the door. Gracey pokes her head in and says, “Sorry you guys. Leanne asked me or should I say told me to come down here and interrupt. She needs to talk to you Paula, ASAP.”

Paula doesn’t flutter. She calmly responds, “Please tell Leanne I’m sorry but I am in a meeting. I will come and see her as soon as I’m finished.”

“She won’t be happy,” says Gracey.

“Do you want me to tell her?” asks Paula.

Gracey smiles, “No problem I will. Bye.” Gracey quickly leaves.

Max comments, “Now there is someone who makes a natural connection with almost everyone. She also utilizes all her natural modes of communications very effectively.”

“Gracey is great,” remarks Paula. “Wished she worked for me.”

“Gracey can stand up to anyone,” expressed Max. “She is a star and could take on a whole lot more.”

The door suddenly bursts open and Leanne parades in, “Paula, I don’t think you understand. I have an urgent issue. I am not getting reimbursed for my bar tab at the tennis club. What is going on?”

“You interrupted me for that,” snapped Paula. “Can it not wait until I’m done?”

Leanne put her nose in the air and snorted, “I am much too important to wait. I want this fixed now.” Leanne was furious and she trembled as she spoke. “This is an outrage!”

Paula calmly replied, “One more time, I will come to see you and we can deal with this when I’m finished my scheduled meeting with Max.”

“You’re choosing this blind monkey over me. I will run this place soon. You just wait!” yelled Leanne, as she asked herself, why isn’t Paula crumbling?

“I’m not choosing anyone over you. This issue can be dealt with when we’re done. I understand it’s important to you but my meeting with Max is not over. I’m not cutting it short this time.”

Leanne stormed out of the room muttering under her breath and slamming the door.

A silence occurs and then Paula speaks, “I’m shaking. I’ve never stood up to Leanne before.”

Max exclaimed, “You were marvelous! Just take a few deep breaths and relax.”

“Please go on. I’m all right. I actually am starting to feel good about myself. Wow. There’s someone who has difficulty connecting with folks and has difficulty thinking about anyone but herself. Now where were we?” asked Paula.

“What I was about to say before this all started,” Said Max. “One advantage I have in being blind was the fact that many wonderful animals guided me by having me hold on to their elbow and walking beside them. We would make a positive connection very rapidly. It would form a bond and spark some rewarding conversations and creative thoughts.” 

Paula inquired, “How about the other two senses? Smell and Taste?”

“Obviously, the next two senses would not rank up there with sight, hearing or touch, however they can still play a role. Gestation or taste. Have you ever been at a group meeting and nothing served could stimulate the taste buds? Usually the coffee is very effective at killing every taste bud we have. Oh I cannot forget when those dried out muffins are brought in or the plastic sandwiches are served. They too, do nothing to tantalize any taste buds.”

“No kidding. I get so turned off by some of the stuff which is passed off as food, you know you mammals would be a lot better off if you ate more seeds,” snipped Paula.

“I’m not saying that gourmet food has to be served or any food at all,” spoke Max. “However there may be a time to take note of exactly what’s being served to the group. Is it any wonder some deals are closed over a dinner meeting? It may be due to the fact more than one sense is being utilized and the tasty food is assisting in the stimulation of the thinking, the creativity and the connection along with the other senses.”

Max points to his nose and continues on, “Now for the forgotten sense, that we have practically lost any functional use of, olfaction or the sense of smell. There are many thought provoking, focusing and stimulating aromas. The sense of smell can stimulate the memory quicker then any other sense when activated. Boy would that rile up the executives if someone set a bouquet of sweetly scented flowers in the board room.”

“I have to try that!” Paula comments, “All senses connect to the brain.”

“Absolutely! What are senses but the psychological method of perception?” Max remarks. “I know it may seem obvious but if we analyzed the definitions of each of the senses. All senses have a link to some aspect of our nervous system and our brain. Thereby, affecting our thought process in many different ways.”

Paula took a long breath letting it out slowly. Then she said, “Wow, I really want to be the executive glue. Now I’m ready to revamp our executive team process with regard to communications. Would you help me with that?”

Max smiled, “Of course! We’ll get Tag and the whole team involved. We will also work closely with Sophia. As she will be key to the administration of the process and whether the changes stick.”

Paula agreed and they took a couple of minutes to create a few preliminary ideas. Paula was on cloud nine. The ideas were flowing. Max was starting to hear a more confident sound in Paula’s chirp. he knew the executive team communications would be just fine. Paula was taking her first step out of the trap.

Garth strutted threw the reception area of Jungle Tech and abruptly halted, smiled and then suggestively spoke. “I never noticed you before. You are a tall and beautiful giraffe. I am Garth the gorilla and soon to be king of the jungle.” Then Garth leaned over and smoothly stroked Gracey on her long neck. “You may rise to even greater heights if you put your career in my hands.”

Gracey gave Garth a look that could kill and pulled away quickly. She fired back, “I am Gracey and you are a jerk! If you ever touch or speak to me in that manner again. You will never walk upright again.!”

Chapter 14 – Sense the Potential     

The one executive who had kept closest to her natural communication modes was Zelda the Zebra. Zelda was the mother of two sets of twins, so she understood the importance of different forms of communications. After only two sessions with Max, she was able to adjust her style effectively. She recognized her tendency towards the visual at times and took immediate action. Max was amazed.

Max realized that Zelda had incredible untapped potential. Max felt she needed to be groomed for a much loftier role. He had spoken to Leo and Tag about giving her the right development and opportunities.

Leo and Tag said they knew Zelda was talented but that they thought she wanted to devote all her time to her family. Leo said, “Actually Max you are lucky you can’t see her office, she has pictures of all those twins everywhere. What’s worse is they all look alike and she dresses them in those horrible horizontal striped outfits. Hey, maybe as we teach her about the Visual Trap, she’ll take some of those pictures down.” 

“Actually,” said Max, “you realize that you made an assumption based on the visual without ever asking Zelda what she wanted. I think I’ll ask her what she wants.”

One day as Zelda and Max were working on her development plan. The subject of career aspirations came up. “Zelda, would you ever aspire to be a President of a company? Any company. Not just Jungle Tech.”   

Zelda excitedly spoke, “Yes absolutely. However, you know all about that glass ceiling. So I do not get too excited. I would love to. But I have lots to learn.”

“Keep delivering and learning the way you are. You have the skill and attitude to make an excellent President.”

“I would probably have to leave Jungle Tech to do that. I really enjoy working for Tag,” pondered Zelda.

If the opportunity were right for you, Tag would be cheering you on. He would hate to lose you. But he’s your biggest fan,” remarked Max. “Also, every company has to have potential successors being groomed. This is all part of good succession management. You never know in this jungle when the top job could come open.”

“Are you sure you want the head aches? Why don’t you slow down?” 

“No way, Max. I love this stuff. It is the spice of life for me.”

“So what have you found out in regards to jTel?”

“They are in financial difficulty. The current President is very suspect, so I hear. Max, if this thing gets closer, would you do me a favor and meet with this President of jTel? I do not trust hear say. I trust what Max says. I want your opinion on this individual. Tell me what his potential is?”

“You got it,” replied Max.

Leo ended the call and thought how much he trusted Max. He had a soft spot for that monkey. The odds were so stacked against him. He knew it was getting tougher for Max every day in the jungle. Leo was one of the few that Max confided in about the challenges he had to face just to survive. Leo wished there was more understanding in the world, of how difficult it is for individuals with real disabilities. Leo would do anything to give Max his sight back. Max just never gave up. He was actually a real inspiration to Leo. More than Max would ever know.

Archie the ape bounded into Paula’s office with a stern look on his face. “Paula, this Visual Trap and then transformation that we are focusing on is dumb. I see no potential in it. It’s a waste of our time.”

“What are you grumbling about now?” Paula spoke with a more assertive tone. One Archie hadn’t expected. He thought she quiver under his intimidating look.

“You tell Tag that that blind monkey is just trouble,” commanded Archie.

“That’s not true. The only thing I’ll tell Tag is how great this Visual Busting Process will be for Jungle Tech,” stated Paula. “You always fight potential changes in the jungle. Why are you like that Archie?”

Archie was taken aback as he was now on the defensive. “Change makes me mad, and when I get mad I play rough,” Growled Archie. “There are other executives that see things my way and will fight this. And just wait till certain board members take up my cause.”

Garth the gorilla and Tanya the tigress were having a quiet drink at the club. Garth enthusiastically said; “That Samson is quite a fellow. He’s not just a great tennis pro. He’s smart too. I see tons of potential.”

“Smart? Really?” asked Tanya. “Have you known Samson long?”

“Years. We’re buds. Go back a long way. He gives great business advice. You may want to see what he has to say. I do.”

“Great guy! Tons of fun. He looks too good to be a smart business type,” purred Tanya as she blushed. “I’ll have to listen a little harder to what he has to say.”

“Well, of course, he doesn’t have the knowledge that I do, boasted Garth. “But well few do. Well, actually no one does.” Garth then laughs as he pounds his chest.

“How would you rank Leo?” asked Tanya. “He always seems to predict the future some how.”

“He should be a janitor for Jungle Tech. Not the chairman. He’s so vulgar.” 

“Sure has made a lot of money,” remarked Tanya. “seems to come up with pretty creative strategies.”

Garth was fuming underneath. She was striking a cord with him but he needed to keep his cool. “Business is changing. The jungle needs more refined and cultured leaders.” Garth soothed. “Even Jungle Tech needs to be led by a more sophisticated sort if we want to move forward.”

“I never thought about it.” Spoke Tanya. “I wish Leo and Tag were a little more refined that’s for sure.”

“They don’t even belong to the club,” interjected Garth. “Here is where
the shakers and movers are. Look at me. How successful I am. I don’t talk about what might happen in the business world down the road. It’s just a guess. I’m an action gorilla. I go day to day. I just make it happen. Now let’s have another drink and talk about the tennis pro, ah I mean your tennis game.”   

As Tanya eagerly talked about her tennis lessons, Garth was watching the door. Soon Tanya realized she did not have Garth’s attention and as she turned around, Samson entered the lounge. Sometimes, I wish he would wear looser clothing thought Tanya. He looks so perfect. Besides Garth said he was smart too. She thought about Tag for a moment but her eyes remained focused on Samson.

Garth smiled to himself. His plan was unfolding.

Yes, this is a hot jungle.

Section Three - Visual Thinking 

Chapter 15 - Monkey See, Monkey Know

Leanne the leopard smugly strutted by Zelda in the hallway and snidely remarked, “I see by that book in your grasp that you are attempting to gain some basic knowledge on strategic thinking. Maybe if I can spare a few minutes one day, I’ll give you the pleasure of seeing just how extensive my knowledge is on the subject.”

“Leanne, you sure know a lot.”

“Yes I do,” boasted Leanne. “It must be hard for someone your age to keep up with all the knowledge required to survive in the jungle.”

Meanwhile Tanya was receiving quite a workout on the tennis court. Tanya exclaimed, “I see you are really pushing me today. Do you think you will ware me down?”

“You know I like my star student to be fatigued as it’s harder for you to resist my charms,” Suggestively spoke Samson.

“Who’s resisting,” Tanya laughed with that wicked overtone.

“Oh Tanya, I see you are a knotty one.”

Suddenly Tanya’s cell rang out and she snatched it out of her tennis bag; “Tanya here.”

“Hi dear, it’s Tag. I was wondering if you wanted to grab a late lunch.”

“Tag I’m all tied up. I have a life you know. Just can’t drop everything because you had the urge to lunch with me. I have urges too.” 

“Sorry, I just thought a lunch at our favorite spot and maybe we could get our lives back on similar paths again.”

“Similar paths! You know nothing,” yelled Tanya. “We aren’t on similar planets when it comes to our lives. You are too late as you are with most things,” snapped Tanya as she ended the call with Tag. She then turned to Samson saying; “Got plans for lunch big guy? I’m so very hungry.”

Rock the rhino rumbled into Max’s workspace. Rock was shy and shuffled his feet. Max knew from his one-on-one sessions with the executive team that Rock probably had no idea the effect he had on women. Rock had chiseled good looks was obviously fit, dressed well and paid no attention to the females around him. It was this apparent no interest that seemed to fuel the excitement. Max knew that Sophia and Camilla both were vying for his attention.

What Max did not know was that Rock’s mother had rejected him at birth and he had been rescued by one of those human ‘save the rhino’ funds. He was raised by humans and then released back to the jungle. He was a survivor. He was lonely. He had never felt the closeness of a family. Rock loved his numbers. Numbers were safe. Numbers would not hurt you. Rock was also the benefactor of several ‘save the rhino’ organizations and spent most of his spare time trying to trace his family roots hoping to find someone that would understand him.

“Hi Max, I’ve been thinking about this visual dominance issue,” remarked Rock. You’ve heightened my awareness to this dilemma. We as a leadership team have it in spades. Are other teams like this?”   

Max replied, “Hi Rock, glad I got you thinking. Definitely each of the executive teams I worked with over the past few years were extremely dependent and addicted to their visual tools. These executive teams had created visual organizations.” 

“Did they value only what they could see?” asked Rock.

“Pretty much,” responds Max. “It was a case of seeing is just not believing; seeing is knowing. Having knowledge or intelligence was linked directly to the visual sense. Expressions thrown out there such as: We’re flying blind on this one; or we have a blind spot on this issue; or it’s like the blind leading the blind.”

“Our team uses those all the time. I try not to be too sensitive to them but it bugs me. I can’t see so well but that does not mean I’m stupid.” 

“Far from it,” commented Max. “And those are just a few of the examples linking sight or blindness with knowledge which I’ve heard in recent years. The speakers were specifically referring to the group and/or an individual not knowing or not having the required knowledge or appropriate level of intelligence. This is wide spread. It is not just a choice of inappropriate words, there has developed a mind set that if one cannot see it, it is not true. If one is unable to present it visually, then the individual does not have adequate knowledge on the particular subject or is just unintelligent.”

“Has it always been like this?” enquired Rock.

Max replied. “There’s no doubt that vision has been a part of our thought process for generations. After all, the word idea is derived from the Greek word, to see. However, it is the extremity of the degree, prevalent in our organizations which has become the major concern.”  

“I agree. I hear it every day in the jungle. I don’t know what I’d do if I was totally blind. I’m thankful of the limited vision I do have. How do you survive?” asked Rock.

“It was almost funny when executives would insist I must utilize slides when presenting to the group. Even though I could not see them. They just had to see what I was saying or it would not sink in. Also, they were much more likely to believe what I was communicating.”

“I don’t mean to be rude Max. Was it your presentation skills?” 

Max answered, “Good question, but no. I was an okay speaker. That was not the issue. Also, I had a relatively high degree of credibility within the organizations. It was simply that seeing was knowing. It got so that over the last few years I utilized slides or some form of visual media for most presentations. Especially if the group had any younger individuals, as they usually required the visual stimulus to achieve any level of comprehension, retention and believability. It made for novel presentations wherever I went. The blind monkey who used slides. To say that my memory had to be sharp to perform this is an understatement.”

“I couldn’t have done it,” remarked Rock. “Are you sure it made that much difference to the crowd?”

Max replied, "I experimented with utilizing visual aids and not utilizing those visual aids over the years. The response from crowds was amazing. The supposed connection between visual knowledge and intelligence is extremely strong. Visual knowledge is king in many organizations.”

“Our executive team only knows what we see,” stated Rock. “And we have to make further changes to break our visual bias.”

“Yes indeed,” agreed Max. “It is time for the next core area in the Visual Busting Process. We will have to go even deeper.”

Max would require Tag’s full co-operation on this phase. So Max called Tag and invited him for a walk in the park. Max had to present an approach that was fairly dramatic. However very necessary in order to capture the executive’s attention concerning their Visual Thinking.

The next day had a beautiful sun filled sky. Tag and Max headed out on their walk at a brisk pace. Tag exclaimed, “Max, I am really noticing a change in the way my team is communicating. Your individually focused communication plans are actually making quite a difference. Are you hypnotizing them? I know I’m communicating differently. I’m starting to really listen. Hey, you’ve probably been hypnotizing me too. Whatever you’re doing, keep it up.”

“Most of your team has worked extremely hard at improving that aspect. Keeping it up over the long run is the real challenge. They are off to a good start.”

“Zelda, Rock, Camilla even Paula are growing in leaps and bounds under your mentorship,” says Tag. “I’m really pleased.”

Max states passionately, “Wow, do they have potential. Just have to give them the right development and opportunities. Zelda continues to amaze me. Glad your giving her the chance to be your TIC. (temporary in charge) Also Camilla and Rock have been developing at an incredibly rapid rate. Great energy originating from those three. Paula has it in her. Paula’s assertiveness and confidence are key. I am spending extra time with Paula. She’s really giving it her all and is growing as a parrot. Even Edward the elephant is trying. He has accepted his shortcomings in the communications area. He is discovering himself. Brilliant elephant!”

“Max, how about Leanne, Hal and Archie?”

“Tag, they are slow in starting. But there are glimmers of hope except for Archie. I will keep at it. Now I need to talk to you about taking a very drastic step. It is to jump start the process.”

“How drastic are we talking Max?”

“You will think it is drastic but it is not really. It is more of a symbolic gesture. However it does send out a strong message. Communications heads this Visual Busting parade.” 

Tag laughed, “What is second in the parade?”

“Second in line is to spark the thinking process,” responded Max. “Let’s start out by having you put out a decree for the executive team, including yourself. No slides or multi media shows in any area of their work for at least two weeks. Believe me, when I say, that it will be frustrating for all of you at first. The positive effect it will have on everyone’s strategic and creative thinking will be astonishing.”

“Oh no! No slides. I couldn’t do it. No way.” Tag grimaces.

Max encouraged, “Oh yes you could. You’d lead the charge. It’ll be the best thing that happened to you. It’s only for a couple of weeks.”

Tag snapped back, “What about the customer, they need to see our slides. Our Sales and Marketing leaders can’t operate without visual stuff. Our customers need it.”

“Do they really? Or do we just think they do?”

“Well, I think so,” responded Tag.

“Are you sure? Because I think one of our real problems in sales and marketing is that we are not listening and are bombarding the customers with images. Maybe this could help us in Jungle Tech to really listen. And I mean really listen to what our potential customers are saying.”

“Interesting” muttered Tag, “Wow, that’s going to be tough for me.”

You’ll do fine. Might even enjoy it,” commented Max.

“How will the team react?” asked Tag.

“They will react much like you did. The more visual the individual the greater the challenge,” replied Max. “We have to start changing the way we think and make decisions or we’ll never beat this Visual Trap. It is also part of swinging the communication pendulum the other way so that eventually we settle in the middle.”

“Let’s do it,” exclaimed Tag. “What the hell, it could be fun. Okay Max, what else do you want?”

Max answered, “Some skill development can be greatly enhanced when primarily conducted one-on-one. Such as communications. Next step in the process is one-on-one sessions involving strategic thinking and decision-making.” 

“Touchy subject for executives,” commented Tag. “We’ve got some big egos on the team.”

“Sure do,” agreed Max. “However, this is critical to breaking the trap. We can’t ignore it just because we may slightly bruise a couple of over inflated egos.”

“One of those might be mine,” laughed Tag. “What about my feelings?” 

“We’ll coach you through it,” smiled Max. “I want to use a similar format to the individual communication plans. I will now add a component on strategic thinking and decision-making. This time we will hold a kick off workshop. I work closely with a very distinguished professor from Jungle University, Oliver the owl. He is a psychologist with significant expertise in the areas of thinking and creativity.”

Tag jumped in, “Hey, I’ve heard of him. He’s very well regarded.”

“We have conducted research together in the area of Visual Thinking,” said Max. “He is a very wise bird. The workshop will position the one-on-one work that I will carry out later. We will tailor those to each executive and obviously use a similar philosophy to ensure consistency. They need the individual attention or some of them will not move forward. I’ll continue to meet with each of them on communications. Now we just meet a little longer. I’m like their very own leadership coach.”

“Like you are for me. That will take a lot of your time,” stated Tag.

”Absolutely, but it’s definitely worth it. I’ll be working night and day but it’s the only way to really move forward. Some activities have to be performed on a one-on-one basis to be effective in a timely manner. I will cover common points in the group setting. However in this area it is very individualistic. Also, as you have already alluded to, some executives may take these suggestions as an insult to their leadership skills or to their intelligence. We will need to be patient. Listening and talking them through the process.” 

“Then let’s do it. It will be a great time for me to practice those new listening skills that I have been learning,” exclaimed Tag.

Archie walked through the reception area complaining about how little the other animals actually knew.

“Archie, why are you grumbling now?” asked Gracey.

“Everyone looks so stupid and I hate change.” growled Archie. “I see what should be changed and it’s not me.”

“Have you ever changed anything in your area or your life,” asked Gracey. “Or are you only programmed to fight it?”

Chapter 16 – Circling the Wisdoms 

“Max, how did your meeting with the president of jTel go?”

Max sighed, “Leo, it was lengthy and somewhat painful. No wonder jTel is in trouble. He lacks the leadership skills and wisdom to be a President. He also has little desire in developing the required skills. You will not turn jTel around with him in the President’s chair.”

“Dam, that’s what I thought,” muttered Leo. “Are you sure with your magic touch you couldn’t help turn him around?”

“Sorry Leo, not a chance.”

“It makes the deal a little messier. He has a small ownership position but I agree with your assessment,” spoke Leo. “Guess I knew it all the time but was just hoping to avoid the inevitable.”

“You know Leo there is a solid candidate right here in Jungle Tech who has Presidential skills and wisdom.” 

At the next executive meeting Tag and Max introduced the concept of going cold turkey on visual tools such as slides and multi media shows for two weeks. Wow, the reactions were fierce. It was like taking away their precious young. There were rants, whines and curses hurled at Max. This struck a sensitive nerve with many of them.

Max explained his logic. He covered the visual trap and it’s effect on the thought and decision making process. Max presented the purpose of functioning without the slides and the positive effect it would create for them as leaders. He pointed out how these visual tools are certainly increasing our knowledge, however was questioning the impact on our wisdom?

Rock interjected, “There is a poem called The Rock. In that poem there’s a line that states; all our knowledge brings us closer to our ignorance. It may well apply to us.”

There was silence in the room for a moment as each animal digested this information in their own way. Mostly they understood. Archie exhibited typical ape like behaviour when he laughed and ridiculed Rock for quoting poetry. This of course, made Camilla jump to Rock’s defense as she thought how wonderful it was that Rock did have other interests than his numbers. Maybe there was hope for her yet. And most importantly, if anyone cared to watch, there were actually tears in Sophia’s eyes.

Max could feel the tension in the room but did not comment. He figured with a cougar on Rock’s side, Rock didn’t need any extra support from a monkey. He smiled when he thought of Camilla taking on Archie the ape. He was certain he knew who would win that fight.

Max continued on, “I think this applies to many groups to a greater degree then ever. We are valuing this thing we call knowledge that is primarily communicated through these visual stimuli. But where is the individual wisdom that takes all the senses to receive and transmit communication of our thoughts and feelings. Our wisdom is getting lost in our knowledge and it’s time to start bringing the two into alignment.”

“So what’s the basic difference between true knowledge and true wisdom?” asked Paula.

Max responded, “Let’s remember that true knowledge is not in the knowing but in the seeking. True wisdom has few answers but the answers they have are profound. Always be suspicious of the individual who has the answer to every question, who can pull up a slide or flaunt their knowledge on every issue. They may be lacking true wisdom.” 

Hal shouted, “I know lots. Are you saying that I’m not smart?”

Leanne snubbed her nose in the air, “I know even more than Hal. I certainly do not need to be involved in this. My work is much too important to not have slides. I can’t think without a picture and I do quite well for myself in the thinking department. I can see the rest of you need help but not me.”

“This is poppy cock,” proclaimed Edward. “I’m a brilliant elephant. No monkey is going to get away with this. I’m insulted.”

Max calmly put up his hands and spoke with a firm but soft voice. “This is absolutely no reflection on your individual intelligence. What I am trying to help us understand is that to truly tap into our creative minds; to truly build a new future for Jungle Tech, which will elevate us to new heights; we’ll be required to think differently. Excuse the cliché but we will have to think out of the box or cage, if you prefer. That does not just happen over night. We have to start the process now. This is one of the most effective creativity generating and shock treatments that can stimulate us as a team.”

Paula piped up, “You know, we each have over 600,000 thoughts in a day and it would be great to stimulate a few thousand of those down a completely new channel. Then watch us take off.” 

Rock reflected, “Remember when we had that first meeting with Max and he was the only one who had slides. Two of them. Then we went on to have one of the best meetings we had ever had. I think Max might be on to something. I realize that I am a slave to my slides. I want to try it.”

Edward the elephant surprisingly said, “This is starting to make sense to me. I am all for it. Max has helped me so much with my own communication challenges. I want to try and survive for two weeks with out the visual crutches. I am game. I know I could use a little spark to my creativity. Right now I just see things the same old way.”

“I could use that creative spark myself,” stated Zelda.

Archie yelled, “No way, this is crazy. Not me.”

“Why?” asked Paula, “Archie you, if anyone should want to increase creativity as you are always complaining how uncreative everyone is about fixing Jungle Tech’s problems. Give it a go. Can’t hurt.”

To defuse the whole sensitivity to intelligence issue, Max referred to the standard seven types of intelligence. He illustrated that there are varying degrees of visual sense required for each of the seven types. In particular musical intelligence requires very little visual sense to show a high degree of intelligence in the musical area. On the other hand, in the spatial intelligence area, a high degree of visual sense is required to demonstrate superior intelligence within this area. Max talked the group through the ideas within Table 16.1, indicating the degree to which a particular sense is required to attain high degrees of intelligence in each area. The executive team began to realize that Max’s intentions were to optimize their intelligence as individuals and as a group. He was doing this by having them optimize the use of their senses and thus their intelligence in the various areas.

Table 16.1  Intelligence Types verses Communication modes

Max continued to re-enforce the concept, “All of the natural communication modes contribute to each of the various types of intelligence. Some just contribute to a greater extent than others. We all are leaving out a tremendous amount of potential in each of us by becoming visually dominated. Equating intelligence with seeing and intelligence with visual knowledge. We are not optimizing our real intelligence in specific areas due to our over use of one communication mode. Therefore, attaining individual wisdom becomes very challenging as individual wisdom is derived through gaining intelligence in a number of these areas.” 

Max flipped up Figure 16.1 that illustrates the flow between knowledge, intelligence and wisdom.

Figure 16.1 The Wisdom Flow

Zelda piped up, “So by being visually dominant, we’re impacting our ability to gain more intelligence and more importantly wisdom. Why is this happening?”

Max replied, “How much time does the average individual spend looking intensely while working? Or even when not working spending hours in front of video games, computers, personal devices and televisions. We are so visually stimulated that marketers can almost exclusively focus on this sense. Go to a movie today and listen to how many words are spoken in that movie. Now watch a movie from 25 years ago. There will most likely be many more words in that script. So, of course we are catering to this visual world. But is it truly optimizing our overall intelligence and wisdom; when we make it primarily a knowledge world acquired visually.”  

There was a pause in the group and the wheels were frantically turning.

Max threw out one more point, “I myself am not a balanced communicator and thinker. I wish I could be. Just can’t see. I can’t find the balance between the communication modes. I end up leaving the visual a little lacking to say the least. I try to visualize in my head to help with the balance but it doesn’t make up for my lack of visual perspective. A common challenge with blind folks. I wish I had your problem.”

Camilla piped in, “I’m going to take it one step further. Not only exclude slides and multi media at work. I’m going to refrain from many of the visual tools I’m hooked on in my personal life. Like the T.V. for example. I want a major shift in my perspective. It might be affecting the way I think. Thanks Max.” 

Rock nodded his head, “Good idea. I think I will try that as well. I will give up TV. Sure glad football season just ended.”

Camilla beamed at Rock’s support of her, while Sophia was frantically thinking of how to get one up on Camilla. She thought about offering to give up television or learn how to play football. As she realized that snakes would never be able to catch a football, she decided that she would attack Camilla in a much more subtle snake like manner. She could take her out of the picture, pardon the visual pun, without her even knowing. This snake was smooth in more ways than one.

The intense discussion carried on for several minutes. Tag was masterful. He was actively listening to the teams concerns. The arguments against were addressed one by one. Suggestions for improvements were welcomed and openly discussed. In the end, the basic practice was adopted. Practical adjustments were made to address legitimate concerns. Max had also agreed to work one-on-one with Leanne and Hal who perceived functioning with no slides an impossible task. However, showing limited enthusiasm they agreed to give it a try.

The second point was the addition of strategic thinking and decision making to the skills being addressed in their one-on-one development sessions. Max introduced the idea of a kick off workshop with a professor of psychology, Oliver the owl. Max gave the group an overview of Oliver’s impressive credentials in the field. Max had expected as much resistance to this concept as he received to the no slide idea. The team may have been tired out. Oliver the owl’s notoriety may have been an influence. Whatever the reason, there was no resistance. There was over whelming support for the concept, led by none other then Leanne. Of course, that made Max even more suspicious then he already was. However he was grateful that he and Oliver could dive into the development of a key component of Jungle Tech’s somewhat unconnected executive team. He was sure the connection would come when they were ready. One step at a time.

Archie shuffled by Max as the meeting was wrapping up and growled, “This is bullshit. I don’t need any help from anyone. I’m the toughest one here. These clowns need lots of help. But I’ve got the muscle. Don’t need brains. I’ll get what I want.”

Max asked, “Do you always get what you want with your muscle?”

“You bet,” replied Archie.

Edward approached Max after the meeting and spoke, “Max, what you said about intelligence and the seven types. I never heard of that. I always assumed I was very intelligent. However from what you say, I am just intelligent in one of the seven areas. The math/logic area. I’m a little humbled.”

“Edward, I’ll bet you demonstrate high levels of intelligence in other areas as well. Certainly, Math/logic would be a very strong area for you. Nothing to feel humble over.”

Edward spoke, “Thank you. You gave me a lot to think about. Look forward to meeting this Oliver fellow. Heard great things about him at the Polo club.”

“Oliver is a great owl. We’ve known each other for a lot of years,” commented Max. “I’ve learned so much from him.” 

“I’m looking forward to learning from him and looking forward to the one-on-one session with you,” stated Edward. “I also would like to get your advice on a rather personal matter. It’s my lavish lifestyle.”

After the meeting, Leanne and Hal huddled in Leanne’s office. The door was closed and voices were low. Very hush, hush. “Why did you volunteer? You don’t actually believe this stuff?” smirked Hal.

Leanne gave him a frustrated look. “Lots of it makes good sense.” Said Leanne. “Much as I hate to admit it. That monkey is actually helping me in my communications style. If I see myself moving up, I have to build my knowledge.”

“Are you sure the big guy will like this?” asked Hal.

Leanne thought for a second. “Don’t know. You’d think improving Jungle Tech would be everyone’s goal. Just who gets credit and who takes power? That’s the issue.”

“Well, you should be in charge here. I’m backing you all the way. You and I make a great team. You have the brains, I have the charm,” spoke Hal, with that permanent smile pasted on his face.

“In the mean time, let’s go along with this monkey. He’s Leo’s guy. Remember Leo’s not out yet. I could still be President if Leo is in charge. Or if our tennis pal, Garth takes control.”

“See your point. I’ve actually learned a thing or two from that monkey. Funny when he walks into something,” laughed Hal. “Actually, had fun with him in our sessions and I will enjoy the extra cash for co-operating. At least for now.”

“I know I will shine even more in Leo’s and Garth’s eyes when they realize what a goof Tag really is. I’m the perfect candidate. I have more knowledge than anyone else on the executive team. I am the obvious choice to lead Jungle Tech.”

“You sure are,” said Hal. “Behind you all the way. Tag is a real fool. Just look what goes on with his wife down at the club. He hasn’t a clue. What an idiot!”

Leanne snaps, “Tag knows nothing. Can’t see past his nose.”

“You’ll make a great President,” smiled Hal. “You seem to know it all.”

Leanne was determined to be President of some company. She would do anything to get there. She had to beat her sister to the punch. Her sister and her had competed over everything and Leanne had always won. Leanne thought she knew more, looked better, was more popular, was richer and was more successful than her spoiled sister. But that sister of her’s was enjoying too much success in her own career. Leanne desperately needed to show her who was better, one more time.

Chapter 17 - Connecting the Dots 

Immediately after the executive meeting, Sophia received a call from Tanya the Tigris. “Hi Sophia. It’s your favorite board member here. How are things? Can’t be great working for that know-it-all boss you have?”

“Hi Tanya. Oh it’s fine. All bosses are pretty much the same. They think they are brilliant. Now what about you? How are you keeping?”

“Things are just peachy. Especially when I’m at the club,” replied Tanya.

“And how’s your game?” smirked Sophia.

“Which one. Oh, you mean tennis.” Tanya laughed, “Still awful, but who cares. Love to play anyway. Maybe those lessons will pay off one day.”  

“Tanya, just keep it up and one of these days you will score big.” 

“Oh I hope so!” exclaimed Tanya. “Now I must get around to business. King Tag said you had some papers for me to sign. What a pain. Can you drop around the club on your way home and I’ll take care of it. We can have a cocktail. You’ll get to feast your eyes on our yummy tennis pro.”

“I’m all for that feasting stuff.” Sophia snickered, “How do you concentrate on tennis with that Samson the Siberian tiger around?”

“Who concentrates on tennis?” roared Tanya. “But seriously, Samson is really a great fellow. We really connect at another level. He makes me laugh. He is so bad sometimes.”

“He is a bad one alright,” stated Sophia. “Tag sure doesn’t think much of him.”

“Well at least I connect with Samson. Tag and I connect at no level. Tag never listens to me. And Tag and I hardly even touch any more. At least Samson listens and well, you know, I suppose he has no choice as I am paying by the hour,” laughed Tanya. “What’s his highness doing today? Probably chatting with that blind monkey that I’ve heard about.”

Sophia responded, “They are always talking. I swear that Tag has changed since Max showed up. He actually listens; doesn’t growl as much. Actually smiles. No longer acts like he knows everything. Tag’s truly connecting with the animals. Becoming a better leader.”

“I’ll believe it when I see it,” replied Tanya. “I wish Tag could be more like Garth. Now there’s a leader. Garth has an answer for everything. Knows it all and is so classy to boot. He chums with Samson, you know. Garth is the only reason I can stand those dreadful board meetings with Leo and Tag. At least Garth tries to connect with me. We talk tennis.”

Sophia thought about Tanya and how she seemed to have changed. Gone was the spark in her eye and lilt in her voice. She seemed so mechanical, she seemed to be more and more like her father everyday. This made Sophia sad. Tanya was born into one of the most influential, wealthy and powerful families in the jungle. She was bright enough and educated at the finest schools at home and abroad. Her social circle once included movie stars, rock stars and royalty from around the world. She was a paparazzi darling. But she gave it all up for love. Long ago she said she was not really happy until she met Tag. Tag had shown her how to have fun and really enjoy life. He was the first person who truly loved her. Her father did not approve of Tag. He did not have pure bloodlines. He had told Tanya that if she married Tag, not only would he never speak to her again but he would also disown her. But Tanya did not care; she loved Tag and gave it all up so she could spend her life with Tag. Besides Tag was able to provide her with a lot of nice things and she was quickly accepted into an entire new circle of friends.

But something had changed. Tanya was becoming distant and was craving attention. Sophia knew that Tanya had called the paparazzi to see if they were interested in what she was up to. She was disappointed that they were not. She started spending more and more time at the club. She was spending more and more time with Samson. She was spending more and more time disparaging Tag. She was spending more and more time with her shrink. But most of all, she was spending more and more time in the lounge drinking. The only good thing that Sophia could see was that Tanya would check herself into rehab just for the attention.

 
Max reflected on the situation. The team was moving in the right direction; however they had a ways to travel before they would get the green light from him. Breaking the Visual Trap was a journey and didn’t happen over night. The team wanted to storm ahead with the transformation. That meant strategic and creative plans would need to be developed to effectively tackle that transformation. But Max had no doubt this executive team was not ready. For if they went into any type of planning mode; the results would be a bitter disappointment to everyone.

The workshop with Oliver the owl had been conducted and was an overwhelming success. Oliver and Max had led the workshop session. Oliver gave the Jungle Tech team insights into strategic thinking and creativity that were precious. He explained the dilemma of visual thinking at another level. The thought provoking exercises were enlightening to all. Connections were being made with the concepts and most importantly, an ever so small connection was beginning to occur within the executive group. The team was now ready and generally excited, except for Archie, about forging ahead with the individual development sessions with Max.

It had been a frantic few weeks. The executives were clamoring for more and more of Max’s time for individual development. It meant late nights for all, as their day jobs were extremely demanding. Max had developed very close connections with most of the team. The individualized development plans for each executive member were slowly paying dividends. Taking the visual tools away was having the desired effect. There was more listening occurring by and among the executives. They were genuinely listening to the employees. Extremely important listening was occurring with the customers. It was working, but they had to go even farther.

Even though there had been a bit of a connection spark appearing at Oliver the owl’s session, overall there was still such a limiting connection among the executive team. Max thought how common that was among so many leadership teams these days. They could look the look and fake the speak without a genuine connection. Some executives were genuine. Some executives didn’t want to and were just playing the game. And then others just didn’t know how to connect. Max reflected on the fact that so many professions revolve around spending hours in front of a computer or some electronic device within our society today. This can deeply impact many leaders ability to truly connect.

Max thought how we are in a visual culture that puts less and less importance on individual connections. We seem to love our technology, then hate our technology, and then love it again. Our technology takes us to the limits of our imagination, then leaves us dangling out there, feeling more lost and isolated than ever.

All these professionals are spending hours with their tech tools being controlled by their technology. The technology manages their every move. They are disciplined by the technology. This means animal-to-animal interactions are often confined to coffee, lunch breaks, impersonal meetings and a few words around the water cooler. A strong feeling of alienation can definitely occur. We are still social beings and require living connections other than what our technology can provide us.

Max wondered if organizations are truly going to understand the productivity effects. The increasing absenteeism, medical leaves and burnout reduce productivity and creativity. We need each other. No substitute for the encouraging face-to-face word, the warming smile or energizing touch. The value of a pat on the back or heaven forbid a hug. We need others to appreciate us and encourage our creativity. No matter how much we substitute our fancy technology for each other, we cannot fight the inevitable. That all the bytes flowing across the network cannot give us a true connection.

There is one exception and that is the smile. The smile has a powerful effect in the initial stages of the connection process. However, generally speaking, if we desire greater connections and wisdom then we will have to utilize a few less slides and leave time to actually engage in active listening and talking. Maybe that series of 12 emails back and forth, with no resolution could be sorted out with a face-to-face discussion. In a face-to-face discussion an individual’s real tone and words can accurately be absorbed and actual smiles can be exchanged. We may consider partaking in an invigorating walk even guide a blind monkey some day and begin brainstorming ideas to solve a business problem. Max laughed. The Jungle Tech executive team may be surprised what that walk and the one-on-one contact will do to one’s logical and creative side. As individuals and as a group, they will begin realizing the incredible untapped wisdom buried inside each of them.

Also, Max reflected on the dangerous trend that is occurring, primarily in many of our youth, some executives, managers and certain professionals. These individuals cannot be alone. The extreme opposite of the isolation challenge. However, these social dependents are only superficially connecting with large numbers of individuals and primarily at the visual level. They have the need to physically see and be talking to others. The depth of interaction is very suspect. Very little individual wisdom and nominal intelligence is gained from these surface level communication activities. Our current technology easily supports this form of interaction.

Leanne fired a text message to Tag saying “You jerk!”

One minute later Leanne called Tag on the cell and screamed, “How dare you make Zelda the TIC for those days you were away. I am clearly the top performer as I am the most knowledgeable.”

“You have had your turn as the TIC. We had nothing but trouble. Our animals were lining up to quit and so were customers,” replied Tag.

“That was Hal and Zelda’s fault,” yelled Leanne. “Zelda knows nothing. I am really running the Customer Care area. I’m carrying her. She is too old. She should be fired!” 

“Leanne, as I indicated in your performance review, I think you should be worrying more about your performance as the leader of the Marketing area rather than scratching and clawing your way to the top.” 

“You have not seen scratching and clawing yet,” threatened Leanne. “You know nothing. Not even what your wife is doing.” 

Paula and Max were wrapping up another development session when Max said, “Your progress is amazing! You are becoming a key connection for this team; although you may have to be like industrial strength glue. But you can do it!”

Garth the gorilla and Samson the Siberian tiger were in their glory. The two were kings at the tennis club. Plenty of folks always around to chat with. Plenty of folks to admire them, albeit for totally different reasons. Garth for the power, money and status he flaunted. Samson for his looks, charm, tennis game and the good times that came with that. The two had settled at Garth’s regular table at the club, after Garth chased away some of his flunkies in order to have a private word with Samson.

Garth kicked it off, “You seem to be quite close to your star pupil. You seem to have connected well and are doing what you are suppose too.”

“As planned, sir Garth.” laughs Samson, “You just hold up your end of the deal. She is like putty in my paws.”

“We will see, Samson. One thing to get a cuddle in the corner. It’s a whole other thing what I want. We will see how charming you really are.”

“Now that’s a challenge this tennis pro loves. Let’s have a little side bet. How about it, big business tycoon.” chided Samson.

“Deal. Pick the terms,” growled Garth.

“Time for the love game. I’ll get back to you on that one.” Samson smirked as he rose and headed for the tennis courts with racket in paw and a pretty little thing waiting for his charms.

Samson was not going to play all his cards right away. He really did not like Garth. He thought he was stupid. Garth tried so hard to make everyone think he was smart but Samson was not fooled. Samson was a player. He knew how to get what he wanted.  He would not let Garth know that Project Tanya was in full swing and would have the desired results. Let Garth sweat it out until Samson was certain Garth would give him what he wanted.

Samson always made sure he had the upper hand. It was particularly effective when no one knew you had the upper hand. Samson always got what he wanted. There was no fence high enough to keep him from getting what he really wanted. Although he looked beautiful and was admired by all, he was a dangerous Siberian tiger.

Garth thought to himself. This time he would really fix Leo. It would be great to take Tag down with his buddy. Garth just never understood how Leo went from one success to another. Garth had brains. He knew it all. Garth saw himself as the smartest gorilla in the jungle. He had attended all the best schools. He knew all the right sorts of folks. Even though he never really connected with any of them. He did at a surface level but not any deeper. He was just too smart for them. They were beneath him.

As far as being beneath him, Leo fit that role. That is why he wondered why Leo always lucked out with the deals. Leo had a limited education. No money to start with. No class at all. Yet, all those sorts of folks that Garth should be able to connect with, connected with Leo. Leo did not even hang out at the club. They talked about how wise Leo was. They even compared Leo to his own late father. Garth remembered how it hurt him when his dear old dad said to him;

“Why can’t you be more like Leo? Why don’t you go work for Leo? Maybe some of Leo’s business wisdom and sense will rub off on you.” 

Garth thought that would be the day. But he sure wished his luck would change. He was going through his inheritance too fast. Garth would show them all. He’d show them he was better than Leo. He’d also show those beauties who froze when he flaunted his power. He thought to himself, why don’t they want to connect with me? 


Chapter 18 – Making Sense of it All


The next morning Zelda and Max were having another development session. Max stated, “We have been building the group sense with in the executive team. It’s almost time to progress to the next core area of the Visual Busting Process.”

“Can you explain group sense to me?” asked Zelda.

“Group sense is critical to the effectiveness of any executive team. Group sense consists of strategic, innovative and practical thinking. (Figure 18.1) All are critical to any team’s success. Strategic thinking is the ability of the individuals and team to think and act in a manner that gives breadth and depth on the future of the organization. It typically resides in a few members within one team. However other individuals contributing in this area can greatly help the team.”

Figure 18.1 Group Sense

“Before you came along our executive team struggled with strategic thinking!” commented Zelda.

“When the majority of individuals within a group are caught in the Visual Trap; then the entire group rapidly falls down a Visual Spiral,” spoke Max. “The group may start out thinking at the strategic level. (Figure 18.2) However since the group’s focus is primarily on the visual; the group plummets rapidly to functioning at an operational level. This has transpired before the group has effectively functioned at the strategic or tactical levels.” 

Figure 18.2 Visual Spiral


“Is this common with a lot of executive teams?” asked Zelda.

“Many, many teams,” sighed Max. “They dive down prior to addressing the strategic and/or the tactical concerns and issues in the appropriate manner. Their solutions to their challenges and problems are sorely lacking. Narrow, short-term options are chosen. The slides take the group down dark tunnels like a pack of moles buried in their narrow little world. There are so many opportunities left on the table.”  

Zelda inquires, “You mean they can’t see it because they’re staring too hard at the narrow little tunnel?”

Max nods his head and says, “The lack of strategic dialogue which is generated from a group having such a narrow focus is frightening. The group feeds off each other. With one sense being dominant a form of group think takes place.”

Max carried on, “The second component of group sense is innovative thinking which is the ability to foster creativity in problem solving, tackling challenges and developing short and long term plans. It is critical at the strategic, tactical and operational levels. This art and science is in serious jeopardy with the manner in which groups are functioning today.”

Zelda spoke, “I hate sounding like a broken record. but before you came along our team had so few creative thoughts when we were together.”

“When meetings are loaded with individuals in the Visual Trap; it truly impacts the group’s creativity. When the group decides to finally get creative, they quickly turn to an analytic dialogue five minutes into a brainstorming discussion. A similar spiral begins. Few challenge, fewer are heard.” 

“Max, it is frightening when a pack of animals who are in the Visual Trap attack a lone animal who is not in the trap and is being creative.”

“It sure is. But the animal must stand it’s ground. Now the final component of the group sense package is practical thinking. This is that common sense or realistic view that is so critical. In the corporate world it would have aspects of what might be called business sense.” Max paused and carried on. “So once we have all three components and have acquired group sense. We are well on our way to attaining group wisdom.”

Zelda inquired, “If there is group sense and wisdom, is there less politics?”

Max responded. “Absolutely! They will shed the destructive politics. Cause those political games can shatter the dreams.”

It was not only the jungle dreams that could get shattered. Shattered personal dreams would affect the team as well. Max’s thoughts drifted to Sophia, Camilla, Rock, Tag and Tanya. He knew Camilla had started to wear Sophia’s favorite perfume Opium. It was not real good on Camilla but she was trying. Sophia was up to something as she was suspiciously quiet and was slinking around in places where she did not need to be. Max thought that if Rock knew what was going on he would be very embarrassed.  Max then thought of Tag and Tanya. It was sad to know that those that had shared a great love had drifted apart. He hoped it was not too late.

Chapter 19 - Mutiny in the Jungle

Garth surprised Zelda on her cell, while she was hurriedly heading to a client meeting. “Hi, Zelda darling; it is big Garth the gorilla; main board guy for Jungle Tech and owner of Gorilla Net. But you know that. I have a proposition for you. I’ll see you at the club in 10 minutes.”

“What about?” asked Zelda.

“Just meet me. When a guy of my stature wants to meet you; do not ask,” commanded Garth.

“I can not meet you for at least a couple of hours. I have an important customer meeting; I am on my way to as we speak.”

“Blow them off,” snapped Garth. “I am much more important then some customer.”

“Oh, you are important. However, I could never do that. I can meet you right after or any other time. Sorry, just can not do that to a customer.” Spoke Zelda with a slight quiver in her voice.

“Come straight over when you’re done,” Garth growled and ended the call. Garth thought to himself, he would have to put this Zelda in her place. That would not take him long.

Zelda arrived at the club, an hour and a half later. She was escorted to Garth’s back room table where he was holding court with a few of his cronies. Garth cleared them out with a wave of his hand.

“Here is the deal, Zelda.” Spoke Garth. “I want you to come and work for Gorilla Net. It will be good for your career. I will pay you more and you will get a membership in the club.”   

“What would I do?” 

“You will have an important role, VP of something or other. I think you will do fine. Work out the details with my President. That Customer Care job you have is not important. Things are going to change around Jungle Tech in short order anyway. You wait and see.”

“I really want to make Jungle Tech work. I have given my word to Tag that I would stay and help Jungle Tech move forward,” said Zelda.

“Your word Zelda; that means nothing. You will be dancing to a different tune in a matter of days. I will be calling the shots soon. Just do it.”

“Thank you Garth. I am flattered. But I just can not step away. We’re just getting started. I can make a difference.”

“Do you understand who you are talking to? I could ruin you.” snarled Garth.

“You probably could. But I have to live with myself. This is no reflection on you. I just gave my word to my boss. If you want to have me fired that is your choice. I can not leave now. Thank you very much.” apologized Zelda.

“Get out of here. I do not want to have anything to do with you,” snapped Garth. He was furious.

Ever since he was a little gorilla, he hated not getting what he wanted. He wanted Zelda out of Jungle Tech. He wanted all of Jungle Tech. Garth had also heard through the grape vine that Leo was sniffing around for another big acquisition. He wanted to know who. Leo was always lucky. He seemed to find these companies and then turn them around. This time Garth was going to find out and steel the deal from under Leo’s nose. Even if he couldn’t steel the deal, it would stretch Leo financially. That would then leave Leo’s Jungle Tech holdings more exposed. Garth smiled and ordered another drink. This was going to be his time to put on a show.  

By this time a small buzz was starting to spread throughout the Jungle Tech executive team. Not like anything the executives had seen, heard or felt before. There was a quiet energy building from the work Max had facilitated on the communications, thinking and decision-making.
Things were happening. Things were going to change.

Archie the ape was looking for allies. He wanted this change train stopped. Where did he go? Well, Leanne the leopard, and Hal the hyena were his most promising allies. The three convened a couple of highly secretive meetings with each other. Leanne encouraged Archie to take a stand and he should escalate the matter over Tag’s head. Leanne and Hal eluded to the fact that they may try an even more aggressive path at a later date. However it would depend on how the other big guy was fairing and which way the wind of opportunity was blowing.

Therefore they pushed Archie to take a firm stand. Promised support when the time was right. They would work the back rooms for him in these early stages of their mutiny. When Archie drummed up the nerve he called up Garth the Gorilla and a quiet drink at the club was arranged.

“Hi Sir,” said Archie, as they shook hands, “Thank you for seeing me on such short notice. I will be quick.”

“You better make it quick, Archie. My time is valuable.” Garth, absolutely loved it when someone was visibly shaken in his presence. The power is sweet, he thought to himself; if daddy could see me now.

“I will sir,” As Archie cleared his throat, “I wanted to make you aware of a terrible thing that is going on in Jungle Tech. Seeing how you and I are almost like brothers. We probably see things the same.”

“We are far from brothers, you overgrown monkey. Don’t insult me. Now go on,” growled Garth.

“Sorry sir,” Archie continued to shrink into his chair. “I just wanted to say that Jungle Tech is starting to make changes. I can’t see why. I am not even sure if I will survive. This blind monkey is getting everyone way too excited. I do not like it. Tag is starting to lead differently. We have to stop them. I have lots of support. It is time to just shut them down. Throw out that monkey and go back to the way things were.”

Archie started pounding his fist and Garth put out his hands to quiet him down, “Arch, stop making a scene. You have come to the right place. Do you really think what Tag and the team are doing is not the right thing for Jungle Tech or are you more worried about yourself?”

Archie bumbled on, “Well, I am worried about myself but they do not know what they’re doing. I will agree we need changes; but very small changes; and not in my area. Tag’s like a tiger with a mission. I hate when he gets that look in his eye.”

“Really” said Garth, “Interesting. Thank you for the info. Why don’t you come and work for Gorilla Net?”

“Archie excitedly replied, “I will! When do I start?”

“How about you stay on for a few days,” spoke Garth. “Keep me in touch as to what is going on. Then some sabotage is in order. Got it Arch? Show me that you are my boy. Well, one of my boys and girls.”

Archie was frantically shaking his head up and down, “You bet Garth. Anything you say.”

“Good boy, now back to work and keep me informed.” whispered Garth.

Archie shuffled off. Garth sat back and smiled. He thought to himself, how he did not get Zelda in his pocket but he did get Archie. Not quite as good and he would have to move a little faster then planned. But he still would be king of this jungle.

Garth picked up his cell, and started calling. While dialing, he smiled and excitedly anticipated how he would kick out Leo. Fire Tag, dump Zelda, and a couple of those other executives. Even his new employee, Arch, would be of little use to him once he had Jungle Tech. Might have to meet that blind Max and put some fear in him. Never met a monkey he could not scare silly.

Harvey the hippo had caught Max refreshing his bottle at the water cooler. Harvey worked for Archie in Operations and was outstanding at his job. He was a real bright light in the Operations area. “Oh Max, can I chat for a few minutes.”

“For sure Harvey! What’s on your mind?”

“I have been watching you. You’re fit. I watch you take your walks. You have lots of energy. I heard you were into the martial arts.” Harvey carried on, “I want to transform myself; like we’re going to do with Jungle Tech some day. I do not take care of myself. It affects my energy level.”

“How determined are you?” asked Max.

“Extremely! I will do anything to get the zip back.”   

“Well you could go to a fitness place. I can recommend one.”

“Just get me started and then I’ll sign up,” Replied Harvey. “I need a mutiny against my body.” 

“Let’s start out slowly. I go for a lunch hour walk and a dinner walk even if I work late. Why don’t you join me when you can? We can talk more.”

“You’re on!” Harvey patted Max on the back.

“Harvey, on our walks you can teach me all about operations.”

“Absolutely,” exclaimed Harvey! “Maybe you could teach me about how politics works in the jungle. I’m not very good at that stuff. I’m a nuts and bolts kind of hippo. It seems like there is an abundance of political maneuvering around here. Is that common?”

“There certainly is that. However, any time you have a group of animals; you have politics. It’s just the degree and intent which varies.”

“Can it destroy what we’re attempting to accomplish?” inquired Harvey.      

“Yes it can. In my first year or two in the jungle, I underestimated the power of both constructive and destructive politics. I learned it the hard way. There is no doubt, the number one reason why most change efforts fail is destructive politics. It limits a group from penetrating past surface level change,” Stated Max. “Destructive politics is extremely dangerous. However there is effective ways to manage it, if you have the true support of the leaders.”

Max was heading out one day when a voice cried out, “May I join you?”

Max quickly recognized the voice. “Absolutely Leanne! If I hook on to your elbow we can go faster.”

Leanne awkwardly spoke. “I’ve never. Well, guided anyone blind. Would you be able to sue me if I ran you into anything?” 

“Not at all, let’s just enjoy our walk.”

Off they went and Leanne got down to business, “Max are you going to give us the green light so we get the capital to transform?”

“We still have the trust area to address,” replied Max. “It’s a tough area.”

“Cause I was thinking that maybe I should put my name forward to run the transformation project if you give the green light. With my knowledge I would be best suited and the board would gladly choose me over Zelda. After all she’s only a zebra.”

“Don’t underestimate Zelda.”

“Oh don’t be silly! Leanne mockingly laughed. “You know at first I thought all this Visual Busting was dumb. Couldn’t see what was in it for me. I played along. But it has definitely helped me. In your experience, will it set us up for a successful transformation?”

“Yes, it will.”

“If we are successful with our transformation I was thinking Tag would get too much credit. I want all the credit for myself.”

There is credit for all. I think it is a little early to worry about credit. All can shine in front of the board. It does not have to be one animal?”

Leanne blurted out, “I want all the credit! I want to be seen as a star.” 

The conversation shifted to much lighter subjects and they went their separate ways as the walk came to an end. Max knew Leanne would have a key role to play going forward. It would hopefully be a positive one.

Leanne sprinted straight back to her office and dialed his number. “It’s time to really talk.” Were the first words she spoke as the phone had been curtly answered? 

“More than talk! I am glad you are taking the opportunity to advance your career. If you play your cards right. We could be working a lot closer together,” was the suggestive response coming from the other line.

Max thought there were some individual agendas being pursued by the board and the executive team members that were anything but honorable. The political storm and jungle mutiny was just beginning to unfold.

Chapter 20 – Jungle Law

Tanya had just attended a sub committee meeting for the Jungle Tech board. After it ended she gave Sophia a quick call and exclaimed; “That meeting was so dull except for getting swept off my feet by that incredibly handsome Rock!  He’s not even aware of his affect. I wonder if he likes to play.”

Sophia hissed, “Hands off pussy cat. I’ve got big plans for that shy rhino. I’m already fighting off a persnickety old cougar. But let’s just say some knowledge has accidentally fallen into Rock’s hands that should put her out of the running.”

“What kind of knowledge and is it true?” inquired Tanya.

“It’s her sorted past. Oh you know, the truth is always so clouded,” laughed Sophia as Tanya joined in.

Tanya continued to chuckle, “the basic law of the jungle applies when Sophia’s love life is concerned.”

Max was heading back to the office when he heard a familiar voice call out; “You got a second?”

It took Max a moment to register the voice and he called back, “Archie! How are you doing in your new role with Gorilla Net?” Archie had surprised everyone with his sudden resignation. The resignation was somewhat over shadowed by a major customer incident. Jungle Tech’s second largest customer was involved and it took a few sleepless nights from Tag, Zelda and the new V.P. of Operations, Harvey the hippo to stabilize the situation. No one could find the source of the problem. Security and Legal were still investigating.

“Doing fine, I wondered if you had a minute to talk. Wanted to chat about my career decision?”

“Sure Archie, there is a park bench around here. I’ve run into it once or twice on my travels. Let’s have a seat. Always have time for you.”

“I was just passing by on my way to lunch, want to come? It won’t take long.” said Archie. “Just need a little of your wisdom.”

“All right, Archie. Let’s go.”

The two enjoyed a cordial conversation as they cruised along. However when Max started to ask questions about what Archie was doing in his new job. Archie was evasive. He became quieter as the trip went on. They arrived at the club. Max and Archie proceeded to the back room. They were settled at a very luxurious and private table. Except, that Max had been guided to an uncomfortable chair which had him wedged into a corner. Max’s alarm bells were going off. He was getting a little nervous. Archie became extremely quiet. Max sensed they were not alone.

“Who else is in the room?” asked Max.

“Never mind little monkey. Time for you to see the light,” spoke a gruff and unfamiliar voice.

“Who is this?” asked Max, “although, I might hazard a guess. Pleased to meet you Garth.”

“You guessed right. Now I am going to make you see things my way, little monkey” growled Garth.

Max sighed and shifted. He was nervous. These two gave off a very aggressive odor. The law of the jungle was now in effect. He would have to be on his guard. Once again his trusting nature had landed him in an uncomfortable position. He did it to himself again. Max berated himself.

“Okay,” Harshly spoke Garth. “I want you out of Jungle Tech. You do not fit in my plans. Go if you know what’s good for you. Your visual busting probably caused that big customer mess they had.” Archie and Garth had a knowing laugh at that comment and Max then knew.

Max took his time and responded. “First off, nice move Arch but why the shenanigans. Garth why didn’t you just call me and set something up? Why this bull-shit?”

“Things are done on my terms little monkey,” replied Garth. “Blind monkey; you are nothing; an inferior species. I really shouldn’t be seen talking to you. I’ll say it once. You’re screwing up Jungle Tech. I want to see you out of Jungle Tech right now!”

“Hay Archie, I didn’t know you became Garth’s gopher.” Max said as he was beginning to relax and wanting to throw them off their guard.

“I’m no…” Archie tried to speak.

Garth blurted out, “Shut up Arch, you’re my puppet. So shut up. I’ll tell you when to grunt.” 

Archie cowered in the corner and went silent, while Max laughed out loud. This definitely aggravated Garth even more.

Garth hammered his fist on the table and let out a jungle roar. “I will speak one more time. You are to leave Jungle Tech. Got it!”

Max laughed again and spoke much louder then he normally speaks. “You can not buy or threaten me. I am there to help Jungle Tech and I will. Its time for me to go.”

Archie yelled out, “You’ll help with nothing, you little…”   

Once again, Garth yelled out, “Shut up Arch. I’ll handle this. You’ve done your part, unless of course, I need you to help apply a little more persuasion on our sightless friend. It won’t take much with such a little guy. I think if we just pounded our chests he would break into pieces.” Archie and Garth commenced laughing.

“Gentlemen and I use that term loosely. I’m leaving before this gets out of hand. I just heard a physical threat. You do not want to go farther.”   

Garth roared and stepped closer to Max, as Archie growled and moved in from the other side with both fists clinched. However, to their total amazement Max had whipped out his folded up white cane and assembled it in one second flat. He had it in a defensive position. It was clear; Max could handle himself with or without that cane. All those hours of martial arts training were worth it. There was stunned silence from Garth and Archie. They were in shock. So was Max!

“I’m proceeding to the door. I will have a taxi called and I’m out of here. Take one more step towards me and all hell will break loose. Think hard about what the papers will say. Blind monkey attacked by playboy Gorilla and muscle bound ape. What happens if you also don’t come out of it unscathed. Your buddies at this club will have a good laugh.” 

Garth growled, “I’ll break you in two. Archie hit him!”

Max felt the two lunge for him. However Archie was definitely moving in with more purpose. Max moved quickly, as he whipped his cane to freeze Archie. Max also delivered a round house kick just flashing by Garth’s head and halting his progress. Now, the two were truly paralyzed. Max had only a few seconds to proceed. Max’s Sensei would have been proud, however Max was shaking.  

Max took one more verbal shot. Before he bolted out the door, he spoke softly, “I may keep this little incident to myself. I may or may not keep the fact that you two clowns were behind that customer issue to myself. But no more interference in the day-to day running of Jungle Tech. You can fight for control of the board. But that’s it!”

Garth and Archie stared in stun silence as Max gingerly navigated his way out of the door and down the hall to the front desk. Max was scared. He hadn’t been that frightened since a number of years ago; his life had been threatened by an extremely angry animal who was having trouble dealing with the changes unfolding. Max promptly left in a taxi and thought; no wonder Tag didn’t like this tennis club. This Garth was in a whole new league when it came to dirty tactics. Leo was absolutely right about Garth. He would stop at nothing to acquire Jungle Tech.

This was definitely a rough jungle.

Section Four – Visual Trust

Chapter 21 – Jungle Lust

Camilla flagged Max down on one of his noon time turns in the park. She was smiling when she caught up to him. “Max I really want to thank you for allowing me to share my issue. It definitely helped.”

“My pleasure Camilla, how is it going?” 
 
“Wonderful, I’m becoming a more balanced communicator. As well, I’m becoming a more balanced cougar. It’s been invigorating! I’ve also plunged into running as a hobby. I never imagined I was capable. With considerable training I’m now entered in my inaugural marathon.”  
 
Max exclaimed, “Fantastic!” 
 
“In addition, I have become a big sister. It is so rewarding. Also I recently met someone my own age and we have really connected. Thank you Max, I just needed someone I could trust. You helped me put my life into perspective. I was just infatuated with the handsome lug. I am no longer turning into jelly whenever Rock is present. Although I would love to scratch out Sophia’s eyes after she slipped Rock that false information concerning my past. However, that urge to scratch will pass. Sophia’s lust for Rock is sure driving her to operate at the lowest levels.”     

 
Tag came back from a customer call with a huge grin. He inquired, “Sophia, you got a minute?”

“Sure boss.” said Sophia. “What is it?”

“Sophia, I know you are sharing confidential information with certain board members.”

“I never do anything like that. I’m loyal too you.” Sophia was explaining way too quickly for her own good.

Tag softly spoke, “I know it’s you. It’s okay. It has been helping Jungle Tech and myself by having some of this info released a little early to certain individuals. I admit the first time I realized you had passed Rock’s preliminary financial results directly to Garth before they were finalized; I was upset. Wow! Would Rock ever be mad if he knew?”

“I’m really sorry!” Sophia began to cry.

“The old Tag would have fired you. But not the new Tag.”   

Sophia began to curl up. She wanted to hide. She had been caught. She just looked down in embarrassment.

“Why don’t we have some sort of understanding?” Tag spoke with a sympathetic tone. “Your trust is critical to me, of course. Do you want to start fresh? A clean slate; I need your trust. We are a team. If I am kicked out you will still have a job.”

“Thank you, Tag. I’m sorry. I was scared.”

“I understand Sophia. Let’s forget the past. We’ve got an exciting future ahead of us. We are going to be number one. We need you. Are you in? No more games.”

“Absolutely, I am in. No more games! Thank you Tag.” 

Sophia realized that Tag had genuinely changed. Could she change? She definitely would try. No more of that back room stuff for her. She would stay away from Garth. All he ever lusted for was power and sex.

Sophia wondered if Tanya had seen the changes in Tag. Sophia realized their marriage was in the tank and Sophia blamed Tag for the most part. But she wondered if Tanya would give the new Tag a second chance. Tag had become a much better leader and she thought he really wanted to be a much better husband. Sophia hoped for both their sakes it was not too late.

Tanya the tigress received a call one evening while dining with a group of friends at the club. “Tanya here,.” she spoke as she held up her tiny pink phone next to her three carat diamond earring.

“Hi sweetheart, it’s Samson, your favorite tennis pro, having fun, darling?” spoke Samson in his sexiest male voice.

That virile voice sent shivers down Tanya’s back. She had been taking tennis lessons from Samson for 6 months and she could not get him out of her mind. He was such a bad one. It excited her. Her tennis game had not improved much. But she never missed a lesson and even liked to fit in a few extra sessions. She knew Tag did not like her taking private lessons from Samson; as Tag had no use for “that lover boy” as Tag would call him. Tag and Samson went to Jungle school together. Tag advanced his career through determination and hard work. Samson was just a good time fellow and never worked much. He loved to play! Tanya felt so good around Samson.

“What would you like Samson? ”  said Tanya with an extremely sensual voice.

“Never ask me that Tanya darling, especially, when you’re as hot as you are.” laughed Samson.

Tanya exclaimed, “you are so bad!” 

“How about you and I meet for a little drink away from the club? Little tucked away place. Share a little tennis talk. Lob and volley.” Samson purred with that wicked overtone.

“Oh I don’t know. Only talk tennis.”

“Of course not.” smirked Samson. “Why talk at all.”

“You’re so bad. Oh okay. You talk a girl into it. Where and when.” Quietly spoke Tanya.

“Shady Lane motel has a lounge next door. Say half an hour. I’ll bring my racket. Cheers” as Samson hung up.

Tanya knew he was bad for her. She just could not resist him. She had seen the change in Tag. She was actually enjoying the new Tag. But Samson, well she had been thinking about him for a long time. She was going for it. She excused herself from the dinner party and away she went. Tanya was off on her own adventure and to hell with the consequences.

Chapter 22 – Everyone wants to be King 

Samson firmly demanded, “I want to be President.”  Garth began to choke on his exotic cocktail. “It would mean a lot to me to be seen as more than a tennis hunk with no brains. You want Tanya in your back pocket and trust me; she’s in mine! Then make me the head of Jungle Tech.”

“Trust me President Samson! I’ll treat you right,” soothed Garth. 

Tag and Leo were sitting around a small bar room table catching up on Jungle Tech business when Leo blurted it out. “Tag, the deal is closed and I’ve bought jTel. I have full control with Triple Anonymous having a small piece of the action.”

“Wow, you did it! Congratulations Leo, you are amazing. That jTel is a big fish to reel in.”

“You bet,” commented Leo. “I have a question for you. Do you want to run the new jTel?”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence.” said Tag, “But a big part of me is Jungle Tech. I have to see this transformation through to the end.”  

“It will get you out of the situation with the board and your problems with Garth. It may even help with you and Tanya by taking the Jungle Tech board politics and pressure away.” Spoke Leo.

Tag responded, “I know. I really love this industry and Jungle Tech. It means a lot to me to go for number one. Even if it means I take the chance Garth will get me out. I’m afraid the issue between Tanya and I is deeper than Jungle Tech. I am going to try my best to be a better husband but where I work is not the issue.”

“I wish you and Tanya luck. I really like your style. I respect your decision to stay. We’re going to make Jungle Tech something special. Now, do you have any suggestions for who I can get to run this new telecom toy I’ve got my paws on?”

Tag thought for a second and tossed it out there. How about …” 

Garth yelled, “Leo bought jTel. How did he afford to play in that game? I can’t see how he pulled it off?”

“No idea, did he steal another deal from you,” laughed Samson?

“No he didn’t,” growled Garth. “It’s just what I wanted. As I want him to be over his head. For now I can strike and strike hard.”


Max’s cell rang out early one morning and a panic struck Leo was on the line. “It’s happening. Silver spoon boy is buying up shares at the Jungle Stock Exchange. Garth the gorilla is such a jerk. He has offered a very inflated price. He now owns 46% of Jungle Tech’s stock. It happened so fast,” yelled Leo.

“Relax big guy. You’ve got your 48%. Have Tag and Tanya sold their 3%,” asked Max?

Leo excitedly said. “No! No! They have not done anything. But well, they are having their issues. This whole thing is getting way too close for comfort. We are heading for a show down. Garth has too dam much Jungle Tech stock for my liking. He just squandered a hell of a lot of his late father’s cash. He is such a clown. Triple Anonymous has not sold their 3% to Garth either. The next board meeting will be a doozy. That’s when Tag formally asks for the transformation capital if he’s got the green light from you. How are they doing on the trap?”  

“They need more work. Sounds like the next board meeting will be a straight power play, a good old fashioned showdown. Right now you are still in control of Jungle Tech. Have you talked to Tag? Where is he at?”

“He is cool. But I know he’s not so sure about Tanya. He claims all is well but his voice quivers. He is coming to talk to you. I’m worried about the 3%. But I’m more worried about my friend Tag and his marriage. Hell, there are lots of companies to run, but Tanya and Tag used to be a great couple.”


Chapter 23 – Jungle Island


It was one breakfast meeting Sophia had been dreading ever since accepting Camilla’s offer yesterday. However Sophia had certainly seen a change in Camilla. She was now getting along with more of the animals at Jungle Tech. Sophia wondered if Camilla would attack her concerning that dirty trick she pulled?

“Sophia, I wanted to have a confidential discussion on a rather sensitive subject,” coolly stated Camilla. “I think we are both well aware of my previous and your current infatuation with a certain finance rhino.”

Sophia shyly responded, “I’ll stay away,” as Sophia was sheepishly looking down. This was not what Camilla had expected. Where was the brash, smart mouthed Sophia that Camilla would pounce on? Sophia carried on, “I’m sorry about that little stunt I pulled.” 

Camilla dragged out the moment then spoke, “apology accepted.” She paused again and cleared her voice. “I just wanted to inform you, I am seeing someone else; a bit more mature. Therefore feel free to pursue Rock in whatever manner you see fit. I never had a chance anyway.”

“Rock isn’t interested in me either,” stated Sophia with tears in her eyes. “Maybe he’s taken the odd glance. But Rock would never get serious about a snake like me.”

“Why wouldn’t he?” Camilla found herself feeling sorry for Sophia.

“Can I trust you,” inquired Sophia. “I’m not one who usually trusts or confides in others.”

“Of course you can trust me. This is just between us.” Camilla realized Sophia was opening up with no hidden agenda as Sophia’s tears were genuinely starting to flow.

Max would now have to turn to the trust issue within that executive team. Certainly the work done in the communication area was a start. The team needed to take it to the next level. The executive team was going to continue to be a challenge. It was one of the key issues which arose out of many discussions Max had with employees, managers and many of the executives themselves. It was good old fashioned trust. Many employees said they did not trust the executive team and believed the members of the executive team did not trust each other. How right they were.

Later that morning Tag located Max and invited him for a long walk. Tag relayed the events of the lively discussion with Leo on the Jungle Tech stock buy up by Garth.

Tag inquired, “Max are all organizations this political?” 

Max replied, “Tag, many are worse. Your company has a relatively small board and fewer shareholders then many. Your decision making is relatively clear. Think about some of the publicly traded companies with many key shareholders or government organizations. Now there’s politics at its best. However, I will admit this thing with Garth is unusual. We will come through it.”

“I’m not sure who to trust. I will only admit this to you. I do not even trust Tanya any more. I have been trying to engage her in discussions on a variety of subjects. When I talk she is barely listening. Asks a half hearted question and then leaves. She is a million miles away.”

“You’re trying, that’s all you can do.” replied Max.

“I will admit that I still do not trust all the executives even with the great work that we have done. Guess I am the problem.” confessed Tag. “I am too paranoid. Am I crazy?”

“Not a chance. Only natural with the board politics all around you,” Explained Max. “But we are heading in the right direction.”

Tag stated, “we have made progress with the team. Still have a ways to go with some of them.” 

“Here is my concern with Jungle Tech.” Spoke Max, “Until we get the whole trust issue worked out at the board level, it makes it difficult at the executive team. It is going to have to start with Leo and yourself taking the lead. I recognize Garth has another agenda. We will have to bring that to closure as soon as possible. However with the Jungle Tech executive team it is time to lay it on the line. We will have to take charge and create even more openness then before. We are sitting at distrust on the Trust Continuum. We must progress to at least Conditional Trust. We need to really move forward now. It is time to try a very different type of session to accelerate the Visual Busting Process. Are you up for it?”

“Max, you know I am ready.” Smiled Tag, “And if I know you, we are truly in for a unique experience.”

“You bet,” laughed Max, “pack your bags. We are going on an adventure. Your whole team is coming along and we’re inviting Leo to make a guest appearance. No one begs off. Even Sophia has to be there.”

“Where are we going and what the hell are we going to do,” asked Tag?

“We are taking a trip to Jungle Island. We are going to bring things out in the open!”

“That is a pretty remote place. There is not much for conveniences.” Tag sighed, “Now that is getting back to the basics.”

“I have got a few special exercises which will bring a lot of issues out. Just having to rely on each other to give us the basics for survival will be bonding in itself. Or it could have the opposite effect. We will be roughing it. Many will complain. Oh, one more thing. No tech toys!”

Tag laughed and said, “you would never win a popularity contest.” 

“I never have and never will. Someday your team will grudgingly admit they are better off for the experience. Now we have some plans to make.”

Leanne yelled at Paula, “There’s no way I am going to Jungle Island. I have much too much class for that.”

“We are all going. We have a lot of issues to work out as a team. It’s time to sort it out and move on. In particular the trust issue,” stated Paula with a firm tone which made Leanne think twice about taking a run at her.

“Trust is an issue. No one around here trusts me. I don’t know why. They are just stupid. Well not everyone, as Hal and I trust each other.” 

“Leanne, the reasons why no one trusts you may be uncovered at Jungle Island. It could be worth your while as even Leo will make an appearance.”

“Well! Maybe I will grace the team with my presence,” proclaimed Leanne with her nose in the air. “After all it’s time for Leo to see who is really the leader of the executive team.”

Max had utilized the Jungle Island site in the past for those teams which needed to solidify their connections and had major trust issues. Max would fly ahead on his own to work with the Jungle Island camp site officials to ensure things were set up just right. As he instructed them on the phone, “let’s strip away the luxuries.” And there weren’t many of those to begin with. The Jungle Tech executive team were very used to the good life. They needed their lavish life styles disrupted and their mind sets altered. They were going to get all of that on Jungle Island.

Max had enjoyed his flight to the island. Flying had been quite a challenge for Max over the years. He had been lost in every airport in the Jungle. He had been left by taxis, turned around in hotels and so on. But, the airports always produced the craziest of events for any blind individual when traveling alone. Even being left on the plane after all had departed. That announcement from the flight attendant that asks;
“Anyone requiring deplaning assistance please wait until all passengers have departed and the airline staff will be happy to assist you.”
The airline staff left too quickly. Max was alone on the plane, until the maintenance crew came a board for cleaning. He was graciously guided off the plane with perfuse apologies.

Max thought airports tend to be a crazy place even for the sighted animals. Maybe its better he could not see the chaos. One thing, the airline staff was generally extremely helpful. Max got to know them well as he flew frequently. He and they had the routine down pat. Max laughed as another memory of what happened when that routine was disrupted.

The airline staff would guide him to the departure gate and then leave him by the gate until the on boarding process would commence. Most of the time that worked out just great. However, there were those last minute departure gate changes. They would be announced over the public address system and a stampede would take place with everyone racing to the next correct gate. Many times a Good Samaritan would help him out. On occasion he was left at the initial gate and it was empty. Max always figured a way of getting there.

One thing Max could say about his airport travels. He truly was able to experience the good in most individuals. He thought back to how genuinely helpful so many were. It did give him a great feeling inside. Yes, you get the odd jerk but very few.

Max definitely had to demonstrate unconditional trust when traveling. He also demonstrated that same unconditional trust to many individuals, just to be successful in the jungle. The majority of the time it worked out famously. The odd time he got shafted. Like the airport there are a few real jerks. But, generally so many were very trustworthy. Max pondered the very few times he was stung.
One time he was purposely read false information on a document he was signing. His regular assistant (who was extremely trustworthy) was not available to read it to Max. He had to trust and it hurt. Max kicked himself for that error in judgment. That was the risk you take. When you are blind you have to trust to survive sometimes.

Outrage was the one word that described the executive team’s first impression of the facilities at Jungle Island. Edward the elephant had his nose in the air. He was indignant! Claiming he was not a barbarian and if anyone at the Polo Club found out about this. Well, he might get kicked out of the club or worse yet, laughed at.

Only Leo, Zelda and Tag found humor in the accommodations and enthusiastically took up the challenge. The executive team was going to be sleeping in primitive huts. They were given the food supplies and the executives cooked over open fires. Everything was fairly primitive. Max had the camp site staff hide the good stuff. The luxuries were scarce. The nice cottages were down the road a ways. Camp site staff  were not to serve these Jungle Tech executives.

Max caught a few scathing blasts from various individuals but it was like water off a ducks back. He repeatedly replied, “Just try to enjoy the experience.” 

Leanne snorted, pouted and stamped her feet demanding to be taken back home. Then Leo smiled and commented “that’s just how a spoiled cub would act. Here’s how I used to handle my cubs when they did that.” He put her to work right along side himself. How could she refuse?

As the hours wore on, the team began to relax. The fire pit became the meeting place. They cooked, ate, talked and even joked. Some humility returned to these leaders as they tested their less than adequate survival skills. Also Max introduced the first of the novel exercises.

These unusual exercises primarily utilized the Auditory and tactile modes of communications. He utilized a wide variety of these cute exercises for teams seeking trust. For example, one executive would catch another executive falling backwards. This was trust at its best. This particular event and it was an event was always a hit with teams. Max periodically conducted these types of exercises especially in the first day of the session. Max listened as the group began loosening up.

Max really encouraged the use of the non visual senses. He would continue to break the executives of their behavior patterns. Max knew any team that predominately focused on the visual would never go beyond distrust. If the team could focus only on the visual and listening, then the team would have a chance at progressing to conditional trust. However, if the team could balance all three modes of communications; the team had a great chance of one day attaining unconditional trust. (Figure 23.1)

Figure 23.1 Trust and the Modes of Communications

The tactile was so critical to real trust Max thought. How many individuals and teams in the jungle are screaming there is no trust anymore. That no one is trustworthy. Everyone is so shady. An animal’s word or paw shake use to truly mean something. All these things are being said while they are staring at their screens.

Yes, the trust game has been mastered but only to a certain extent. In today’s jungle they have sure learned to fake the trust look. They can fake the trust speak. However, they can not fake the trust feeling. Why do lie detectors work so well; because their based on the tactile.

Every individual and team has a core trust element. Max would push hard to have this executive team touch their core. Those that didn’t wouldn’t make it as long as Leo ran things.

Much of the serious discussion was left for camp fires and pre meal time. Max would worked diligently at exposing the personal conflict between individuals; bringing it right out in the open. They had to start opening up to build their trust; even if it hurt at first.
Leo ended up staying longer then planned as he was excelling in the role of camp cook and prankster. Leo’s enthusiasm truly helped livened things up in the early stages; however he’d have to move on at a certain point.

Those who tried to hide were called out. Sophia attempted to play the game that she was not really a part of the executive team. Therefore she did not have to participate. Bull shit was called by the rest of the team and Sophia could not slither away in the corner. She started to engage; becoming part of the solution and not one who just creates more political problems behind the scenes. Sophia also began assisting Max to prepare for the various exercises and started to relax. She asked questions that did not just focus on political issues but actually what was best for the team. It was becoming clear; she was connecting and making dramatic steps to break free of the trap.

Rock was cleaning up around the camp fire as Sophia approached him. Sophia had thought to herself how she had made some of her best moves with Rock and he had a limited response. It was time to drop the games.

Sophia spoke with sincerity that Rock had never heard. “Rock, I want to apologize for what I did to Camilla. That was terrible and I feel bad.”

Rock replied, “That’s okay. But you may want to apologize to Camilla.”

“I did. She’s really a nice cougar once I got to know her. Rock, what do you like in someone who you are dating?”

Rock looked up in shock. Then he stammered, “Ah, well one thing I am sure of I admire someone who is trustworthy and loyal. I hate being hurt.”

Sophia shrank into a ball. She was sure Rock had heard about her spying. She remained silent and wondered, was this why Rock had never shown any interest?

“I suppose the other thing I admire is when someone makes a mistake and admits it. I should know as I’ve made my share. I like when the individual comes clean. Takes responsibility and then goes on,” stated Rock. “The way you did with the Camilla issue.”

Sophia perked up. She thought maybe there is a chance. But he would never forgive her for the other thing she had done. After all it involved his precious numbers. But it was time to confess.

Chapter 24 – Out in the Open

After Leo had departed, the discussion of board dynamics arose. Now the good stuff started to come out. Yes, some of the executives had talked privately to others on the board and it was mainly to Garth. Sensitive topics had arisen with Garth. There was some back-stabbing. Most agreed this was not healthy. However, they all swore they were behind Jungle Tech and its drive to be number one. Yes, there would be some politics for control of Jungle Tech’s board. However, they all agreed they would not allow the politics to interfere in their pursuit of making Jungle Tech very successful. That was the best they would all agree too.

There was major airing of differences between each other. Leanne and Hal kicked it off by going after Tag. The two blamed their lack of success in Sales and Marketing on Tag and his leadership.

Leanne openly stated, “Tag, I believe I could run this company more effectively than you. I am the key reason we are breaking the trap.”

A hush fell over the team. Max stepped in just before Tag spoke and asked, “Leanne, What would you do differently if you were in charge?”

Max had caught her off guard as she was waiting for a showdown with the current President. Tag took Max’s lead and waited patiently for an answer. “Well.” Leanne finally replied, “I would see that more focus was put on the Sales and Marketing area.”

Max responded, “But right now you have the ability to shape Marketing the way it needs to be. You present plans but nothing changes.”

“That’s not the point. I just see myself as the natural leader for Jungle Tech. Rather than getting into specifics on Tag’s weaknesses. Let’s just say, I want the job. I want the title. There’s a key player on the board who also thinks it should be mine.”

“Thank you for coming out with that. However, right now the job is Tag’s. If Tag has weaknesses then let’s address them. Let’s get them on the table and fix them. If you attain the President’s role one day you may be sitting here having the same chat with your executive team. But for right now, let’s deal with areas Tag can improve on.”

“If I’m President no one will be pointing out my weaknesses. Cause I will have none,” pronounced Leanne.

Tag jumped in, “ Please come forward. No repercussions. I want to know my areas to work on other than the ones Max keeps reminding me about. Leanne, if you attain the President’s chair all the more power to you. But I am not giving it up freely and for now let’s deal with what we know.”

Leanne looked down and began to list a few things Tag should be working on. Corrective actions were suggested. Hal chimed in with a couple of points but when they started verbally voicing the issues. One could tell that they knew they were sounding a little petty. Tag was truly a leader at this point. He listened hard. He did not over react. He handled the criticism like a pro. Learned a few things about himself and promised to fix his weaknesses.

The other executives waited patiently then became frustrated with the pettiness of the situation. They went after Leanne and Hal. Zelda kicked it off, “Leanne and Hal, don’t you think this charade has gone on long enough?” A silence fell over the team. “It’s apparent your self centered agendas are at the heart of every word you speak.”

Harvey the hippo spoke up, “do you two ever step back and look at yourselves? You only think of yourself and could care less about Jungle Tech. How much time do you spend playing political games?”

Edward had been a breadth of fresh air, once he got over the primitive conditions. Edward gave an amusing laugh and said, “There was a time not long ago, I would have jumped in and gave some sarcastic comment about Jungle Tech and Tag’s leadership. However now, I have to say Leanne and Hal, what Zelda and Harvey say is true. As well, Tag is becoming an excellent President. Your efforts on the Visual Busting project were not as stellar as you think. Frankly, at times you two have  attempted to disrupt the process. All I can say is grow up as I have had to do. Be part of the solution. Please stop thinking of only yourself.”

Most of the group cheered. Leanne and Hal were outraged. Max let them get into it, then just when it was about to break, he circled them back. At one point when Leanne was ready to go over the edge, Max called for a break and went off with Leanne for a walk.

Max explained the concept of blind ambition which is where an individual can not accurately see, hear or feel reality due to their obsession with advancing their career. Max, explained she may one day use politics to attain a top job, however she should focus her efforts on ensuring her skills will match that lofty appointment. Leanne was listening like never before. She was still going to be a political animal; however there was some acknowledgement of Max’s points.

When the team reconvened, they continued to battle. There were tears, rants, yelling, etc. Some individuals just thought it was over and they could never work as a team again. Max had a couple of doubts himself. However deep down he knew they had the potential to be an extremely effective team.

Therefore it was time for Max to utilize a tried and true exercise. He blind folded every second executive. Strategically paired them off and sent the pairs off for a long walk with a purpose relating to their specific situation. Back in the larger group Max would keep moving them forward and celebrating their progress.

They were fighting in the team. Cooling down and resolving issues in the paired walks with one animal blindfolded. The key was, they were still talking they actually were still laughing with each other. Most importantly they all still had the same vision for Jungle Tech and wanted it to be successful. That one fact held them together and then came the moment.

Chapter 25 – A Jungle Burial

The Jungle Tech executive team broke through! It was that symbolic event that did it. Paula the parrot went off and brought back a shovel. She pronounced; “The funeral starts right now. I am burying the past and we are moving forward.” She began to pretend to throw dirt on a pile. “Let’s get our complaints out. Our petty little issues need to be aired and then buried. Let’s state them with feeling and then they are over.” Paula listed her issues and then proclaimed. “Thank you! A new day is dawning. Who’s in?”

Zelda jumped in and went along. She spoke with a sincerity and passion that moved everyone, then said, “That felt great. I’m ready to start fresh. Who’s next?”

Camilla to everyone’s surprise went next. She even took a shot at Rock. Smiled when she was finished and then went over and hugged the big rhino.

Rock immediately grasped the shovel and had his turn. He shared a side of himself the others had never seen. Tears were definitely flowing from Sophia.

Harvey, Edward, Tag, and Max took a turn. Their energy was infectious.

Then Sophia took the shovel. She admitted her spying secret, trick on Camilla. Then sincerely apologized for both. The team was shocked. This was not the cool snake they knew. The new Sophia had so much more to offer. When Sophia was done the first one to cheer was Rock.  

Now Hal went to the middle of the group. He was uncomfortable and admitted; “I have extreme difficulty sharing my true feelings. I’ve never done it. I lie so much I don’t know what telling the truth is like.” He went on to share a small personal fragment or two. He was visibly shaken and exhausted when he sat down. Max began to clap and the rest of the group joined in. That was more genuine sharing than Hal had ever done.

Now Leanne was looking down as the group turned to her. She slowly went to the shovel and began listing past issues and complaints with the team. She spoke with a very monotone voice. Then Max asked her how she was feeling at that moment?

She replied, “Very empty. I guess I really suffer from blind ambition” She emotionally confessed her bitter sibling rivalry with her sister that has totally consumed her. Leanne was spent emotionally. The team praised Leanne for sharing.

Tag stood up for his second time. He delivered such a passionate speech to the team. Max was beaming from ear to ear. This was a true President. He was amazing. The entire group cheered loudly and went up and hugged him. Even Leanne and Hal got caught up in the moment and joined in the team hug.

By session wrap up the team had become closer than they had ever been. Max felt they had moved about as far as they could under the current conditions. The board politics was the only major obstacle hanging over the team. However, it had been neutralized with the executive team to an extent. That’s as much as Max could accomplish for now.

Max was packing up his gear as he prepared to leave for home. He thought how many times trust became the key hurdle to clear in any of his Visual Busting interventions. He was almost done when Hal the hyena slipped up behind him and asked, “How’s it going Max?”

“Excellent Hal! “What did you think of the session?”

Hal was evasive, “Ah, well I guess it was okay, got hot at times. They take it too serious, but did have fun.” 

“Are we better off as a team then when we came,” asked Max?

“I guess so, I never think about the team,” replied Hal.

“Are you still going to feed Garth damaging info?” Max hit him right between the eyes with the question.

Hal was silent and Max waited and smiled.

“I’ll chat with him a bit but only fun stuff, party chat. Garth is a real party guy,” Replied Hal.

Max said in a very firm tone. “After what we all agreed to, I hope its friendly stuff and you are not trying to screw Tag and Jungle Tech. Now that we’ve all agreed to cease all the backstabbing in relation to the board. Just let the board have their power struggle. Let’s get it over with and then on Jungle Tech goes.”

“I guess I understand,” Hal responded with that smirk.

“Understanding is one thing. Staying out of it is another; unless you are after bigger prey,” said Max.

Hal smiled, “Okay Max, I’ll try to stay clean but you know me.”

Max would never stop Hal. However maybe he could slow him down just a little. Leanne was next on his list.

In spite of Hal and Leanne, overall this team was entering the conditional trust zone. Hopefully they would not fall back. For if they could keep progressing; someday they could attain unconditional trust. At that point, they would be the majority of the way down the path towards attaining loyalty which is primarily a feeling. Groups which have become so very visual often ask; where is the loyalty? The visual group can not feel it even if it was there. And it’s not.

Although the team as a whole was entering the conditional trust zone; not every executive was progressing out of the trap. That meant unless something or someone changed soon; some animals were not going to get that green light.

Chapter 26 – Jungle Love

Now Tag had planned this evening for a few days. He was more nervous  then when he first met Tanya. They were inseparable back then. What a couple they had made.

Tag had come home early and prepared her favorite dinner. He went all out, fine wine, candles and flowers. Tag had a great time preparing this special dinner. He forgot how much he enjoyed cooking.

Tanya waltzed into the dining room and stared in stun silence. “What’s this,” she asked?

“I prepared dinner, it’s your favorite. I hope your hungry,” inquired Tag?

“Tag, I thought when you said we would spend some time; we would be going to some social or business function with other animals around.”

“Just the two of us, it’s like old times. Let’s enjoy dinner and talk. I’m learning how to listen,” said Tag. “Well, so Max is telling me.”

Tanya nervously moved around the room and says, “What do you want?” An awkward pause occurs and she blurts out, “oh I know you just want to butter me up so you can have those shares voted the right way. You are worried I may side with Garth. That’s it; you’re just a con. So get lost.” Tanya started to leave the room.

“Tanya, please stay. I assure you, I will not talk business. The shares are important to me. I won’t lie but it’s us that I am really worried about. If you want to side with Garth or sell the shares; then you go ahead. But I want to give us a chance. I have worked too hard at my job and ignored you too much. I did not listen enough. I am trying to change. I hope and pray that I am not too late; am I?”

“I don’t know Tag, probably.”

“Can we just spend some time together and talk. I’ll really listen to you. Please Tanya, just one dinner.”

Tanya agreed, “Okay, just one dinner.” 

After some uncomfortable silences, Tanya and Tag began to relax. Smiles began to form. Laughter began to flow. The pleasant mood inspired the two to go back in time with respect to their relationship. Tanya quite enjoyed the attentive Tag and he had not lost his touch in the kitchen.
 
“Tag, you are still amazing in the culinary arts. Why did you not keep it up over the years? I really enjoy this side of you.”
 
“That corporate world can rob a tiger of a lot of the finer things in life. I lost my balance. I love working hard but I do not have to be obsessive. I am sorry!” Tag’s voice was quivering as he carried on, “Tanya, you know I’ve always loved you and been loyal to you. But I just let the corporate jungle consume me.”
 
“Yes, you have been loyal and it was not all your fault. I lived the good life with the money, the mansion, the trips, the cars and the club. I know you hate that club. I guess I fell into my own trap. You are trying to get out of yours. I do not know if I can get out of mine,” whispered Tanya.
 
“I want to become more a part of your life. I just hated that club and some of those phonies down there. But let’s try to rebuild our marriage. We were such a great couple. We can do it. Let’s start with a get away trip. It would be like a second honeymoon.”
 
After a long pause Tanya quietly responded, “Tag, I need time to think. Just some time to decide. Sometimes I think it is too late for us. Then on a night like tonight, maybe there is a chance.” A small tear began to form in Tanya’s eye. “One thing we always had was we trusted each other.”
 
“We were great together. I know it is not too late for us. You take all the time you need. Let’s keep talking. I will make sure I’m listening. Let’s start fresh,” Exclaimed Tag!
 
“It’s not so easy to forget the past as things have changed. We will see as these things take time,” said Tanya.
 
Tag cleared his throat and spoke, “Tanya, I have prepared a little poem for you.”
 
“Oh no,” Tanya laughed, “You did not. You used to write me poems back when we were first dating. They were so sweet and so good.”
 
“Here it goes,” as Tag recites his creation with feeling Tanya has not seen in him for years. That second tear begins to form in her eye.
 
Tanya’s only response was, “Thank you, it is so sweet, so very sweet!”
 
They finished the evening with both having connected at a new level. Tanya was confused. Tag was very sure of what he wanted but not sure of where Tanya was going. They never talked Jungle Tech once.
 
Tag’s last words to Tanya were, “Thank you for tonight it was really special for me. Oh, one last thing. I want to go take some tennis lessons. I want to learn the game that you love. I will not be very good but maybe at some point I could play with you. I will even come down to the club and hang out with your friends. It will be fun. Who is that tennis pro down there? Samson! That was his name. I use to know him. Maybe he could teach me. What do you think?”
 
Tanya went white. Her look went blank. She just said “We’ll see Tag.” As she rushed out of the room.
 

Chapter 27 – Trusting your decisions 

“I know I’m the strongest candidate for the job,” roared Archie.

Garth smugly pondered the statement and then said, “You have been very useful to me lately. However, I have not made a decision on who will replace Tag when I take control.”

“See the power in me. I’ll crush those weaklings back at Jungle Tech.”

“Certainly one advantage of choosing you is that I will just tell you what to do. You will do it without thought or question.”

Archie grunted, “you bet boss. There would be no fancy talk of strategies and empowerment. All the power will be centered in one ape. I’ll do whatever you command. The clowns back at Jungle Tech will do what I say or else.”

“Interesting approach Arch, your making the decision on Tag’s replacement even more difficult. As even our tennis star has made convincing arguments why he has what it takes to jump from the tennis court to the President’s chair; after all he has done some excellent work for me off the court. However trust me Archie, you are my first choice.”

“Max jump in, I will give you a lift.” Edward shouted out over the noise of the pouring rain.

“Thanks Edward, I was getting soaked.” Max found the door handle on Edward’s car and hopped in. He had been returning to the office from an off site meeting and a sudden cloud burst caught him off guard.

“This rain storm came out of nowhere, and I see you are without an umbrella. Max, you are one of the first to ride in my new J car. It is a very basic automobile as I’ve dumped all my luxury autos. My wife and I have made a lot of major decisions lately. It’s part of our new life and financial freedom.” The two sped off as Max began to enjoy the dryness. Edward added, “I want to thank you for the personal advice old boy.”

Max replied, “my pleasure. This car rides smooth and feels real fine.” 

“That’s what shocked me how this basic car is not that much different from some of my previous cars that cost many times more,” stated Edward. It is part of my financial make over. We have moved into a smaller home. It is very cozy and we love it. We have done some cutting on some of the luxuries we really did not need. Of course, I did not give up the polo club as that is my passion. We still keep our trips, but we will not always go first class. I feel so invigorated by lifting that financial weight off my chest.”

“You sound so much happier.”

“I truly am. I’m living a simpler but more fulfilling life style. Yet I have not given up anything that really matters to me. And my work life is outstanding. I feel so empowered with my new communications and thinking skills. It’s been as if I got a new lease on my life and career. Thank you!”

Paula burst into Max’s work space and pronounced. “I am going back to school!”

“Wow! What are you taking and where?”

“I’m going to get my executive MBA at Jungle University. I have never had the confidence before. I finally made the decision. It will be a lot of work as I will still be doing my job here at Jungle Tech. But it has been my dream and I will do it!”

“That is fantastic! Well Paula, if anyone can do it, you can. ”   

“I want to thank you Max. You have changed my life. You have given me the confidence to be decisive. In honor of you I’m doing my major thesis on the subject of the Visual Trap.”

Hal burst into Leanne’s office and shut the door, then whispered, “Heard it from the grape vine that our tennis pal is very close to having control.”

“Really,” expressed Leanne, “I knew he would win out in the end.”

“He is waiting on a final decision. It looks like a done deal,” stated Hal.

Leanne smiles and says. “I would love to be at that board meeting where Garth takes charge and strangles King Leo. Then watch him declaw Tag.”

“Tag will finally be thrown out. You are the obvious choice to replace him. Except that Archie has been all buddy buddy with Garth and you never know. After all they are practically brothers.”

“There’s no way it will be Archie. He is just Garth’s gopher. I better get my acceptance speech ready for the big moment is coming soon,” boasted Leanne. “Of course, I’ll have to mention that Garth is such a wonderful gorilla; as he loves to hear that stuff.”

“Yes he does. Get that speech ready,” said Hal. “I’m going to look forward to being your number two and all the power that goes with it.”

Garth had been contemplating on the next President of Jungle Tech when he would be in control. It was almost here. He was so close. Removing Tag would be sweet. The late night drinks last night confirmed his choice. Garth needed the right sort. Mainly, they had to worship him and be scared of him. Garth made the call.

“Great time last night. You told me exactly what I wanted to hear.” laughed Garth, “you’re the chosen one. You do not have to tell me again. I know. I’m the best.”    

This jungle has large and fragile egos.

Section Five - Seeing Beyond

Chapter 28 – Busting Out

Leo, Tag and Max were having a briefing session the day before the board meeting. Max was to give his final assessment on Jungle Tech and its success in breaking out of the Visual Trap. Tag was extremely nervous about what Max would say.

Leo asked, “Okay Max, who busted out?”

Max responded, “First let me talk about the team. Remember that it’s the first three core areas that I’ve focused on. The Seeing Beyond area is a bonus but not required at this point.”

Leo chuckled, “took me years to get to that Seeing Beyond stuff.”

Max carried on, “the team as a whole progressed very nicely through the communications and thinking areas; except of course for Archie who took the easy way out. When they came to the trust area the majority of the group did just fine. However, one executive did not.” 

“Which one?” inquired Tag.

“Well I was hoping they all would,” commented Leo. “Are you sure if you gave this animal another chance they might be able to come through?”

“Yesterday I tried again to break through with the last two who were not making it. One broke through. The other did not and there is no way,” disappointedly spoke Max. “It is what it is and that animal will never change. On a positive note, the team as a whole is definitely ready for a transformation.” 

Tag exclaimed, “Yes! I get my capital. I have my transformation presentation ready to go on a moments notice.”

“I placed the transformation item on the agenda for the board meeting on the chance that Max would give the team the green light. However Garth says he will raise all kinds of hell if we ask for capital to transform,” stated Leo. “He’s threatening a board mutiny. The board knows we need a major transformation. But the majority of the board members will not want to give you the capital to pay for it.”

Max responded, “Garth may be right although he’s using the fact to stir things up.”

“We need the capital,” yelled Tag. Then he paused and looked at Max and slowly said, “Well, I think we do. We need some time to sort that out.”

“You have one day,” said Leo. “If you really need capital after you take another cut; then I’ll fight for it. You will have to get Tanya on side.” Tag gulps and gasps as Leo goes on. “But it will be a fight. However, if you don’t need it; its clear sailing.”

Tag stated, “Max what are you doing today and probably all night. Our strategic and creative brains are going to be put to the test. Right now I can not think of a way of transforming without a major capital injection. The entire team thought the same way in the past. Now that we are out of the trap, will the team think differently?”

Max smiled and said, “Let’s get at it. Get as many of your team together. We are going to challenge everything and truly think outside of the cage.”

“All I want is the straight goods. No fabricated numbers. If you really need capital I want to know now,” demanded Leo. “Just give me the truth.”  

“You’ll get the truth,” stated Tag. “Rock will ensure the numbers are real. Okay Max who did not break the Visual Trap?”

The whole team was summoned to the emergency executive meeting. Max facilitated the team through a process where they utilized the existing transformation plan as a foundation for baseline information. Then it was scrapped. A fresh cut was taken. The real creativity was about to begin.

Max and Paula had the appropriate music playing at various points of the creative session. They had placed the appropriate aromas in the room. Food and refreshments were carefully selected. They rearranged the chairs in a circle with no tables. Max started by turning out the lights. It was pitch dark.

Tag groaned, “Not again! I’m actually getting use to the dark”

“And you’re a better tiger for it!” exclaimed Max as the team had a chuckle.

Max embarked on the creative journey with the team. Tag’s leadership skills were blossoming. He was most importantly asking others for their input and actively listening. They developed creative strategies and solutions that they would have never dreamed of. The comments coming out of the team regarding their new transformation plan were bordering on amazement.

As the energy built, the natural law of limitless boundaries occurred. The team was getting over exuberant. Max knew the team had passed a critical milestone. They would have to bring a greater degree of reality into the transformation plan at this point in time. The transformation vision and goals was right. They were going for the stars. That was great. They now had to bring just the right amount of reality into play, not too much or it would kill the dream. The transformation vision should remain a going for the stars one. But the transformation goals and objectives should be achievable and measurable while still challenging.

The Jungle Tech executive team truly developed a creative approach to transforming the company to number one. They had stayed at the appropriate level of thought for most of the session. A strong connection was forming among the majority of the team. They used all their senses to achieve this. They had fought, argued, laughed and cheered. They even hugged again. Something Edward thought he would never do a second time. What a wonderful journey. They had all grown and benefited except for one who would never stop the games. Jungle Tech now had an exciting transformation vision and strategy. They even produced a short multi media presentation which effectively utilized visual, auditory and tactile modes of communication.

In the later parts of the session, Rock had his spread sheets going. He and the team were now focused on the numbers. Trying to nail down the capital required for the transformation. Rock finally said; “I have what I need. Let me work on these the rest of the night and figure out what we can do. I’ll be in my office. Right now we need capital but not as much as we were originally going to ask for.”    

Tag sighed, “Garth will really go after that fact.”

One executive slipped out of the room and made the call. “Garth, they still need the capital but not as much.”

Garth growled, “If it were me in Tag’s spot, I’d need a ton of capital. But if he asks for a dollar in the board meeting; I’ll rip Tag to pieces.”

Chapter 29 – Coming out of the Jungle

Gracey had been helping Sophia put the new transformation presentation together into the late hours. “Max, tomorrow is your last day. I am sure going to miss you,” spoke Gracey sincerely. “You were the one that got my career going. I can not believe I am going to move into Animal Resources. I sure am lucky.”

”It’s not luck Gracey; it is your talent and hard work.”

The team took a break and Max went back to his work space he had been utilizing for the last two months. He began cleaning it up. Time had truly flown by. Max thought to himself, how engaged he always became in each assignment and how difficult it was for him to depart. He would keep in touch; however it was time to move on. If he stayed too much longer they would become too dependent on him. That was not good. They had the talent to go the distance. He was so very proud of them. However he was sad as this was the hardest part. Even though one kept in touch, it became less frequent over time. It was not the same as being right in the jungle with them.

Max went back to the meeting room where Tag and the team were going to run through the final transformation presentation one last time. It was so very impressive. The team that was presenting was ready and pumped. The dry run went very well. No one could find fault with that story unless the criticizer really desired failure for selfish reasons. So, Tag sent the team home to get a great night sleep before the big board meeting the next morning.

Before Leanne departed she slipped up to Max for a quick chat. “Max, it’s been really interesting working with you. Oh sorry, that doesn’t sound right,” She laughed. “What I mean. It has been truly delightful working with you. As much as I did not think I would in the beginning. I definitely learned a few things from you.”

“Thanks Leanne,” responded Max. “It has been equally as delightful for me. You have done a marvelous job on your component of the transformation plan. Good luck tomorrow!”  

“When I become a President of a company; you would be the first one I would call.” stated Leanne.

Max strolled on over to where Rock was burning the mid night oil. As he walked he was contemplating Leanne’s statement. Who knew how long it would be until she attained her dream.

Rock, an accountant from Jungle Tech as well as Max took a last look at the detailed financials of the Transformation plan. Max was not much good in this area. However he knew enough to be dangerous. Max just kept asking questions. Surprises kept occurring as they dove deeper into the numbers.

The financials relating to the transformation were going to be presented to the Jungle Tech board tomorrow. Rock and Max wanted to give an accurate assessment of exactly how much capital it would require. The lower the better however it must be realistic.

The small team determinedly worked the rest of the night sifting through the numbers; attempting to limit the transformation capital costs. They widdled it down; but no cigar.
Max really wanted to throw that on the table to shut Garth up. Not that it would matter. Garth would still most likely make his move but for the team’s sake, it would have been great. It would have been icing on the cake. Maybe you want a little too much Max thought to himself.

It was finally morning when Rock put his hoof on Max’s shoulder and admitted, “Max, we are all tapped out of ideas. It appears, Jungle Tech will have to ask the board for capital to carry out the transformation. Not much but I just can not do any better.” sighed Rock. “We did the best we could but fell short. I better go plug the final numbers into the transformation presentation.”

“Too bad,” tiredly spoke Max, “We gave it a hell of a run; Nothing to be ashamed of. In today’s board meeting, you are going to stand tall as this is a great financial story considering how little capital we are asking for.” 

“Dam right!” swore Rock. “I want to thank you for everything Max. You and I have spent a lot of time together over the past two months. Wow! I really admire you. The way you operate without your sight. I have learned a lot from you. By the way thanks for helping out Camilla. I see a little more than many think.” 

“It was my pleasure. I can not thank you enough for being a true Finance leader throughout this whole process. You are the one that is amazing. Thanks buddy.”

Rock smiled, “I’m seeing, hearing and sensing Sophia in a completely different manner these days. She has shed her old ways and I really like the new Sophia. Even Camilla is raving about the new Sophia. It’s time for me to muster up the confidence.”

“Three deep breaths and then go for it,” responded Max.

Rock laughed, “Good advice.” He paused and then slowly asked” I have another question. Are groups going to wake up to the visual trap? Or is it one of those situations where they can not see the challenge, as they are looking too hard?”    

“Great question,” Replied Max. “As with many things we do not realize that we are in trouble until we are in a crisis or we truly become desperate. As long as groups are performing at an acceptable level. Therefore the group does not have to deal with the real issues. However, when things become more difficult for a particular group, such as an industry slow down affecting the organization; then they will need to dig a little deeper. Many groups are performing at a sub optimal level. All this because they might see but not sense.”

Rock inquired, “Is that what Leo forced us to do?”

“Yes indeed! Leo can see, hear and feel the future. He wants his leadership teams to do the same.”

Rock stated, “we are now! But not like Leo. He certainly does See Beyond the obvious.”  

“Leo has mastered the science of Seeing Beyond. He has learned to just shut his eyes and let his other senses take over. It is amazing the visions, strategies and creative ideas he develops in that manner. Jungle Tech is lucky to have him as an owner,” said Max.

“So Seeing Beyond starts with just shutting your eyes. It seems so easy? You would think more leaders would have figured this out,” Remarked Rock.

“A few have figured it out. However with many leaders it is a very different story from that of Jungle Tech. With the way the world is becoming more visually dominated; the visual trap will most likely become worse before it gets better. For our leaders of the future our educational system and parents will have to resist the visual trap. In our society as a whole, I am hopeful that as awareness begins to grow a ground swell will occur. There are glimmers of hope as very slowly the sparks of awareness take hold.”     

Rock asked, “what can be done from an individual perspective to get groups moving in the right direction?” 

“Individuals who realize the visual trap exists, can start making the change in their own methods of communications, thinking and trust. They will be much further ahead in both their personal and work lives. An individual may just be a single wind of change at first. However over time there will be additional individuals in their group. Then small groups within organizations will form. Once there are enough quiet winds of change blowing, it’ll grow into a larger gust of wind which will right the ship.”

“You were sort of like a quiet wind of change for us,” Remarked Rock. “Once we became aware of the visual trap and learned how to effectively utilize our natural modes of communication, we began to reap the benefits. In a way, we began taking the first steps to Seeing Beyond. There was a little pain along the way but well worth it.”

Max exclaimed, “Rock, you have got it! First break the Visual Trap. Then begin to uncover the hidden treasures waiting as you shut those eyes and See Beyond.”

“Yesterday was our first attempt. What a rewarding ride!” pronounced Rock.

“Now we will show the board it was all worth it,” smiled Max. “After you plug in the final numbers, let’s go get cleaned up and come back and nail that board meeting. Then it’s time for this monkey to move on.”

The positive aspect was that Max would get back to his paradise; this time for good. These busting projects took their toll on Max. They took tremendous amounts of his energy. As someone who is blind, he was continually tapping into his creativity. As new challenges were presented each day; that an individual with their sight would not have to face. In particular as the world was becoming more and more visual.

The challenges had been fun over coming. However Max was glad he was at the end of his time in the jungle. He would miss the many great animals he was privileged to work with. It had all been worth it for that one reason. Jungle Tech would be the last. Max could not think of a more appropriate Visual Busting to call his final one. Leo, Tag and all the Jungle Tech gang were very special to him. It was a great way to end.

Tag came bouncing over to Max. His exuberance was apparent. “It is one hour to the board meeting where we show the goods. I am pumped! Leo and I want you to sit in on the board meeting and listen to our transformation pitch. But first let’s go for one of those walks. I am really going to miss our working walks.” 

“I will miss them as well. We have had a great time.”

The two headed out the front door chattering like two old friends which they truly had become. When you have been through any event together there is a tight bond that forms. It is no different when a Visual Busting occurs.

Tag remarked, “I have gotten into this walking stuff. You got me hooked. Even run into some of my team. Harvey is so dedicated, have you seen how fit that hippo is? Wow! You know I come up with some great ideas when I head out for a few minutes.”

“Tag you have broken through. You and your team are on your way.” reflected Max.

“I feel so good for the team.” Tag chirped. “I’m starting to sound like Paula, oh no!”

“We have only smoothed out a few of your rough edges. You are a long way from being Paula. Sorry about still having to ask for capital.” Max spoke with sadness in his voice.

“Rock told me. Garth will use it to put a dagger in the transformation plan as quick as he can. But that will not stop me from telling the real story. Got any more tips before you go besides the fact I must watch my back when I’m around Garth.”

“I can share my three Laws of the Jungle if you want.”

“I want them” demanded Tag.

“Here goes,” smiled Max. “Law #1 …” 

Tag could not stop laughing. He finally muttered, “What a way to send me into a board meeting. Now, I know I’m going to ace it; with those gems in my back pocket. Max, you’re a funny one.”

Max responded with a serious tone, “Tag, it has truly been my pleasure. Thank you, for letting this monkey be a part of Jungle Tech for these past two months.”

Just as Tag and Max came to the front of Jungle Tech’s head quarters; Garth was stepping out of his limo with none other than Archie the ape opening the door for him.

“Hi Garth, Hi Archie.” yelled both Tag and Max in perfect unison.

Tag carried on, “Great day for a board meeting.”  

“You may not think so,” growled Garth. “You better not ask for capital or you‘ll have hell to pay.”

“He’ll be begging!” laughed Archie. “Like he begs his wife to come home from the club.”

Garth laughed, “Shut up Archie. But you make a great point. Let’s head up, I’ll make short work of this cat in the meeting.”

Tag’s face went red. His eyes focused. He began a very quiet snarl. Between that look from Tag and a fiercely stern aura radiating from Max. The two froze. Archie looked straight down. Garth gulped and broke out into a perfuse sweat.

“Arch, be a good fellow. You go first and carry my lap top up for me.” Garth nervously shuffled right behind Archie who was sheepishly leading the way.

Tag stared intently as they went by. You could cut the tension with a knife. After they were gone Max spoke, “They are just trying to rattle you” soothed Max. “Don’t let them.”

Tag replied, “They sure want that showdown. They will get it.” Then Tag began to laugh, “They were a little scared of my look but they were more scared when they were looking at you. Now, what did you do to those two clowns?”    

“It’s obviously my muscular physique,” smirked Max.

Tag roared with laughter, “It must be.”

“Now let’s go show them what you are made of,” cheered Max.

As the two arrived at Tag’s office, Tag cleared his voice, “I want to give you a little present. a personal gift from me. This is for all your help. I could not have done it without you.” 

Tag pulled out a brand new white cane. The cane was a traditional one. However, it had gold plating on the handle and had diamonds strategically scattered throughout. It was extremely well crafted. The cane was a beauty.

Max felt the cane from head to toe. “Tag, this is a beautiful piece of art. Thank you! This is so very nice.”

Leo waltzed in to Tag’s office just then and shouted, “Tag you didn’t give that monkey another weapon. He’s dangerous with those things. Somebody, protect me!”

Max cleared his voice one more time. “Thanks again Tag. I’m going to use this cane for the board meeting. I think it is going to bring us good luck.”

“We will need it,” laughed Leo. “Got your text message Tag about still requiring capital.”

All of a sudden Sophia burst into Tag’s office. She excitedly exclaimed, “Garth has submitted a last minute agenda item. It’s under Other Business. He sent me a couple of slides to include. He’s calling it Showdown at the Jungle Corral. What do I do? It is really too late for this.”

“Thanks Sophia” said Tag, “what do we do boss?”

“We will deal with it today. It is time,” Spoke Leo. “But first Tag, you and your team are going to give us the transformation plan. Garth will throw out that bull shit about requiring capital. It might cause some grief. Garth and I will fight after but before we start swinging at each other, I want you to present the transformation plan. That is what is important.”

“You bet,” spoke Tag.

“Tag, One last thing concerning that issue I talked to you about. Are you okay with it,” Asked Leo?

“Absolutely Leo,” expressed Tag.

“We’ll announce it at the end of the meeting. Okay let’s go get him,” roared Leo.

They had a few minutes before the meeting commenced, so the three proceeded to the board room following different routes. As Max went by Sophia’s desk he whispered, “Thank you very much Sophia for the heads up. You may have saved him.”

“Oh I hope so, whispered Sophia. “By the way, thanks Max for everything. And I mean everything.” Then Sophia smiled and excitedly exclaimed, “Yes! Rock and I are going out tonight!”

Now Max tried out that flashy new white cane which Tag had so graciously given him, as well as making two quick calls; the second to Gracey. Max also ran into Archie in the hall as he was just sitting there waiting for his next order from Garth. Leo was having a quick chat with Zelda while Tag was smiling and excitedly chatting with Tanya.   

Just before Tag and Max were about to enter the board room Rock and Sophia came racing up to them. Rock excitedly whispered. “We did it! We do not need any capital from the board. It is truly legitimate. Sophia has already updated the slides.”

Samson was sitting back at the club with his arm around one of his favorite students. He had a drink in his paw. There would be no lessons today. He thought life was finally going his way. Samson figured if things unfolded the way they should; he would be a member of the club by tonight. No longer just an employee.

Chapter 30 - Showdown at the Jungle Corral

Tag was beaming as he entered the board room with Tanya at his side. They were laughing and touching as Tag escorted Tanya to her chair. Tag was sure their marriage had turned the corner. Garth just glared at the two married tigers and also frowned when Max entered the room. Garth was giving Leanne extra special attention for all to see. The room was packed with the whole executive team sitting in on this board meeting right from the very start. Leo brought the meeting to order and conducted some preliminary business, then proceeded right to the heart of the matter.

“Tag, you and your team are on,” commanded Leo. “Give us the transformation plan.”

Tag energetically kicked off the transformation presentation. He proceeded to take the board through a chronological view of what had unfolded. Then he had Zelda, Leanne, Hal, Harvey, Paula and Rock present the various aspects. He chimed in at the appropriate time. This was the new Tag. Even Garth had to take a second look at Jungle Tech’s President. Tag even caught a hint of pride on Tanya’s face as she listened intently. However, he did think she also looked worried.

The transformation presentation was a winner. Tag was smiling from ear to ear. Leo was as proud as punch throwing in words of encouragement and praise at the appropriate points. Tag had really come through. He was going to turn Jungle Tech into a real winner. Tag’s team was becoming a force to be reckoned with. Even Garth gulped. He had not been given enough financial details in advance. Garth thought he would have to talk to Sophia about that. He expected more out of that seductive snake.

It was time for Tag to wrap up the transformation presentation. He blanked out the screen and said, “I want you to listen carefully to only one important number. We purposely left this out of Rock’s portion of the presentation.”

“Here it comes,” loudly spoke Garth. “Let the begging begin. But the answer is no!”

took his time and spoke slowly; the capital amount required from the board to transform Jungle Tech to number one is zero.”
 
The place erupted but was quickly cut off by Garth’s yelling, “There is no way you can do it without capital!”
 
Tag and Rock gave a response that clearly demonstrated what a strategic and creative approach they had taken. It bordered on brilliance. This time the board gave the team a rousing ovation and Garth could not stop it. Leo was caught off guard as Max and Tag did not have time to bring him up to speed. He was grinning ear to ear. The board was genuinely grateful for what the executive team had put forward except for Garth. It was great news. All the executive team was able to take a bow.
 
Tag spoke up, “Again, I really want to thank this amazing executive team for their hard work. I am so proud of them.” Another thunderous round of applause broke out. “Also I can not forget my little buddy who has quietly changed our lives. He has been a real help. We could not have done it with out him. A big thanks to Max!” There was more applause from the group.
 
Leo roared, “That’s my monkey, at a boy Max!”
 
Then Garth the Gorilla spoke up, “Nicely done Tag and team. Although the transformation plan is impressive. That is not what’s foremost on my mind. How about you sit down and let me get down to business. You kitties are going to be taught a lesson.”
 
“Just a minute” roared Leo, “you are out of line Garth.”  
 
“Like hell I am,” said Garth as he strutted to the front. Meanwhile Leo had given Sophia a pre-determined wink and she had Garth’s slides up on the screen.
 
“What is going on here,” snarled Leo?
 
Sophia spoke softly, “We have come to the section of the agenda called other business. Garth had one last minute item called, Showdown at the Jungle Corral”.
 
“This is not the time or place. We can not do this; it can not be done here.” Spoke Leo.
 
Garth growled, “It can and will be done here. I have every right. I have the floor.”
 
“You gave your word that if Jungle Tech did not require any capital to transform; you would let it go,” stated Leo.
 
“I say lots of things I do not mean,” smirked Garth.
 
“Why would you want to disrupt Jungle Tech when it is about to get on a role? You are actually going to make money on your Jungle Tech stock. That will be a first; you making money.” As Leo knew the fight was coming and he just enjoyed egging Garth on.
 
“This is about power and control in the jungle,” growled Garth.
 
Leo smiled “Go ahead Garth take your best shot. We know it has been coming. Technically speaking the executive team should leave but what the hell. They may as well stay for the show.”
 
“Even better! They may as well see who will be running this show. There’s a new king of the jungle about to be crowned,” boasted Garth, “I would like to open with a slide indicating controlling shares of Jungle Tech. (Table 30.1) It’s broken into four columns. The first column indicates the controlling shares of Jungle Tech owned by Leo the lion. We have a grand total of 48%. Second column:  I, Garth the gorilla control 46%. The third column indicates the 3% controlled by my friend Tanya. Finally, the fourth column is stock owned by Triple Anonymous. This stock is basically uncommitted. As they are not represented, so I am in control.”
  
Table 30.1 Jungle Tech Stock Control 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            
Leo laughed, “What are you talking about Garth? You’re not in control. Just move Tag and Tanya’s 3% over to the first column called Leo. Then let’s end this charade.”

Tag affirmed, “That’s absolutely right. Right dear,” he asked Tanya?    

“Cool down Tag,” piped up Tanya. “Winds have changed direction cats. Garth or shall I say soon to be Chairman of the Board, please carry on.”

Leo and Tag’s faces dropped. The light bulbs flashed in their heads as they realized Tanya had pulled a fast one. She had thrown in with Garth. Tanya legally voted the 3% which were rightfully both Tag and hers.

Tag pleaded, “Please Tanya. Do not do this. Let’s talk.”

“I’m putting my vote behind Garth. Fight for control is over! we are over! I am backing a winner,” smugly pronounced Tanya.

Tag pleaded one more time. Tanya just shook her head and said, “No way! Your way too late with respect to our marriage and your just not tiger enough for me.”

Tag yelled, “I will fight you in court, I will …”

Tanya cut him off “you will fight nothing. You have no case and these shares are legally mine. It is cut and dried. You are done.”

Garth went on, “you see, between my 46% and Tanya’s 3%, we have 1% more than you Leo. I will or shall I say we, sorry Tanya, will take control of the board in short order. Historically the 3% of Triple Anonymous stock votes with the board through a proxy. They always follow the board like sheep. They will follow me now. I give them credit for being so discrete. Masterful job who ever is behind it.”

Tag’s head had dropped and it was now buried in his paws. He had been delivered a devastating blow; his wife’s betrayal. He thought they were turning it around even up to the last minute. She had really fooled him. Leo had a look of shock and just groaned. But Leo’s mind was still racing. He would never give up without a fight.

“So cats, this showdown is over,” said Garth. “To complete the grand slam, I would like to introduce my choice for the new President or shall I say our choice for new President, Hal the hyena.” For a second Garth thought to himself, just how many fools did I promise this job too? Although Archie did catch on after he heard me offering the job to Hal. The losers would have to get over it he thought.

Clapping and cheers broke out from only a couple in the room; the rest stare in shocked silence. Sophia puts a hand on Tag’s shoulder to comfort him. She realizes losing his Presidency is bad enough. Losing Tanya will crush him. This time she is not going to blow with the wind. She thought to herself, Garth can go to hell.

Leanne smiled at Garth and thought what a clown he really was. Leanne knew she was not going to be offered the President’s role after her chat with Garth last night. Even though Garth had been promising her all along but he was just using it to get something else. She could not stoop that low. Garth’s reaction when she said she could not meet him at the Shady Lane Motel was; “It’s your loss and you were not getting the job anyway.”

Leanne could understand why Garth offered it to Hal. They are both sleazy and Hal could stoup to any depths. Leanne was so thankful Max tried one more time with her yesterday before she talked to Garth. It was a miracle she thought. She might attain her dream one day. But she was going to earn it the right way. Not on the terms Garth was asking. Hal must have went behind her back. The same way she had gone behind Tag’s back. She had sincerely apologized to Tag last night along with the rest of the team, except for Hal.

Garth spoke again with an even more pompous tone, “Upon wrapping up this meeting, Hal and I will be driven down to Channel 4 Jungle Business News. They will be interviewing us on the course of action we will lead at Jungle Tech.”

Hal yelled out and pumped his paw in the air, “You are amazing Garth!”

Garth carried on, “Hal’s first task as President is to begin the break up and sale of Jungle Tech, even though most would say the breakup doesn’t make financial sense. It makes gorilla sense to me. So that’s what we are going to do,” as Garth pounded his chest. “I’m the new king of the jungle. I can use the money from the breakup to indulge in my pleasures.”

Meanwhile, Max had been sitting in the corner of the room all this time. As the scene unfolded, he sent a pre-arranged message through to Gracey on his cell. His plan would begin to unfold. No one had noticed as he had quietly slipped to the board room door and opened it.

Gracey whispered, “Here she is. You guys are so cute.”

Max ushered in his guest. Found the far end of the table while the cheering from the select few was still taking place. Suddenly he slammed his new cane on the board room table. Shouting, “Showdown’s not over. We have not had the vote yet. One more bullet in the gun. Garth is not Chairman yet.” 

Shocking the group, silencing the cheers. Tag’s head popped up. Leo just smiled and thought, what has that crazy monkey got up his sleeve? Garth began to protest. Max hammered his cane down a second time even harder. There was dead silence.

Max spoke softly, “It is my privilege to introduce to you the 100% owner of Triple Anonymous, who controls the mysterious 3% of supposedly uncommitted Jungle Tech stock that we are all so interested in. It’s my beloved wife Mindy. Oh by the way Garth. I can assure you, Mindy is no sheep.”

Mindy spoke sweetly, “Leo, your in charge. I’m backing you. That means Tag you are still the President.”

Garth, began to rant and pound his fist.

Mindy firmly spoke and pointed her finger directly at Garth, “Garth you over grown baboon, button it. You have always been after some one else’s lunch, ever since we were in jungle school together. It is over.”

Garth stared in shock. He began to bluster. One look from Mindy, and he stopped. He was paralyzed. Sophia saw the winds just change again. She winked at Mindy and mouthed a “Thank you!” 

Tanya began to cry. She looked to Garth for support but he looked as if he had seen a ghost. Tag just stared at Tanya. He was white. Yes, he had Jungle Tech back. But he had lost what was really important to him. The jungle took its toll. Tag thought to himself, it just was not worth it.

That permanent smile had been wiped off Hal’s face. He was speechless and in shock. However, Hal the hyena was a real scavenger. It was just a matter of seconds before he would be smiling and looking for his next opportunity to feast. He already said, I did not really want that Presidents job anyway. Too much work and I am happy with the money I am making in my current job.”

Zelda whispered in Max’s ear. “You brat! You were waiting with the hammer all the time. Oh, thank you Max. I will never forget how much you helped us.” 

Hal was over with Leo immediately, claiming he was behind him all the way. Leo knew Hal was the one executive who did not successfully complete the Visual Busting process. He would be gone by day’s end!

Leanne came over to Max, gave him a big hug and said with genuine feeling, “Thank you!”

Garth’s flunky board members were patting Leo and Tag on the back. A crowd had also formed around Mindy. She was the new gal in the jungle and a new player in the game. So, the animals would want to network with her. However that was not Mindy’s cup of tea.

Max listened to the moves. He listened to the posturing. The game goes on, whether you play or not. It never ends. That jungle is always alive.

Max smiled and said to Mindy, “You were amazing my dear. Are you ready to leave this tea party and get back to our paradise? But for good this time.”

Suddenly Leo roared with excitement, capturing the room’s attention. “There’s one last item. I’ve recently purchased controlling interest in jTel. Along with my partner Triple Anonymous; I’m pleased to announce the new President of jTel will be non other than Zelda the zebra.” That met with a roar from the team. The loudest coming from:  Max, Mindy and Tag.

jTel was a good size company. This was a real step up for Zelda. Tag gave her a big hug. He was so proud of Zelda. She was not going to take the role unless Tag agreed to free her of the commitment she had made to him. And of course he did. Garth just slumped in his chair a little farther as it was another deal he had missed. This was Zelda’s moment as Zelda the zebra was finally getting the acknowledgement she had long deserved. She will have her challenges. However, she would do extremely well as President of jTel.

Garth had gone over to Max and had started in on him “You blind monkey……”

Max just calmly spoke in his soft voice, “I suggest that you announce your resignation from the board effective immediately; as I have four notarized documents here. One implicates you in sabotage of the company. This document is provided by your friend Archie when he found out that you did not choose him as president. The others involve sexual harassment.”

Max just left the flabbergasted Garth and went over to give each of the Jungle Tech executive team a congratulatory hug. However, Max and Mindy gave Zelda and Tag, an extra big embrace. It was a memorable day for each but for different reasons. They made their polite farewells to others in the room. As Mindy guided Max out the door, Leo yelled, “Thank you Mindy! Thank you Max! Till the next time. Love You!”


Epilogue

Being without sight blessed me with more insight into the visual dilemma facing us today.