Key takeaways
Dogs greet everyone without judgment, a reminder to approach people and situations with an open mind. When we do, we invite new friendships, collaborations, and unexpected opportunities into our lives.
Lincoln’s willingness to try anything once highlights the importance of experimentation. Success often comes from curiosity and action, not waiting until everything feels safe or certain.
Dogs live entirely in the moment; they don’t dwell on yesterday or stress about tomorrow. By practising mindfulness and appreciating what’s right in front of us, we find more joy and peace in our daily lives.
A nudge, a touch, a moment of play, dogs remind us that genuine connection and physical presence are more valuable than digital distractions or busy schedules.
Lincoln forgives easily, adjusts quickly, and embraces change without resistance. Those same traits: resilience, flexibility, and letting go of grudges, are the foundation of emotional strength and leadership.
If your dog could whisper in your ear, I bet they’d say: “You’ve been doing life the hard way — let me show you how we dogs do it.”
That’s certainly been the case for me.
My miniature schnauzer Lincoln has taught me more about living fully, loving deeply, and leading wisely than many business books or seminars ever have.
Dogs live with an honesty and simplicity that we often lose as adults.
If you’re willing to observe, they’ll give you a masterclass in how to approach life, work, and relationships.
Here are 10 lessons Lincoln has shared with me — lessons I think we can all benefit from.
1. Give Everybody a Chance
Lincoln doesn’t judge.
Whether it’s a neighbour, a delivery driver, or someone passing on the street, he greets them with an open heart (and usually a wagging tail).
Imagine if we humans did the same? Every person we meet could be a new friend, a potential collaborator, or someone who brightens our day.
Lesson: Approach people with openness. You never know where those connections might lead.
2. Try anything once
Lincoln isn’t afraid to experiment.
He’ll jump in the water even if he’s not sure he’ll like it.
Sometimes it’s messy, sometimes it’s brilliant, but he always tries.
Too often, we let fear stop us from even beginning. But as Lincoln reminds me, the only real failure is not trying at all.
Lesson: Step out of your comfort zone. Test, experiment, and learn.
3. Connect through touch
When Lincoln wants attention, he doesn’t send subtle hints. He nudges my hand, leans against my leg, or gently paws until I notice him.
That reminder of physical connection is powerful.
In our digital world, real human touch - a handshake, a hug, a pat on the back - is irreplaceable.
Lesson: Don’t underestimate the power of simple, genuine connection.
4. Enjoy the ride
Lincoln doesn’t care whether we’re heading to the park or just the shops — he’s thrilled simply to be along for the ride.
Meanwhile, we humans are so outcome-obsessed that we forget to enjoy the process.
Lesson: Stop fixating only on the destination. Find joy in the journey itself.
As I often say: “If you don't enjoy the journey, you won't enjoy the destination.”
5. Make time for daily movement
Even on lazy days, Lincoln still stretches, plays, or nudges me outside for a walk. Movement is his medicine.
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For us, staying active isn’t just about fitness — it’s about clarity, energy, and longevity.
Lesson: Build movement into your day. Your body will thank you for it.
6. Be upfront with what you want
When Lincoln wants a walk, he heads straight to the door.
When he wants a treat, he sits patiently by the pantry. There’s no guessing game.
Humans often struggle with this. We drop hints, expect mind-reading, or stew in silence. Dogs cut through all that noise.
Lesson: Speak up. Be clear about what you need or want.
7. Live in the now
Lincoln doesn’t worry about tomorrow’s weather or yesterday’s mistake.
He’s fully here - sniffing every tree, soaking in the sunshine, loving the present moment.
We, on the other hand, often miss today because our minds are stuck on yesterday or tomorrow.
Lesson: Be here, now. Appreciate what’s in front of you.
8. Accept compliments gracefully
When you say, “Good boy, Lincoln!” he doesn’t argue or brush it off. He beams. He accepts the praise with pride and joy.
Too often, we downplay our achievements or reject compliments. But why not just let the good stuff in?
Lesson: Say “thank you” and embrace the praise. You deserve it.
9. Forgive and move on
If I accidentally step on Lincoln’s paw, he might yelp - but within seconds, he’s wagging again, ready to move forward.
Humans cling to grudges and let resentment fester. But holding onto the past only weighs us down.
Lesson: Forgive quickly, free yourself, and move on.
10. Adapt and thrive
When our routines change, or when something new enters Lincoln’s world, he adjusts. He might be unsure at first, but he learns, adapts, and often thrives.
Change is inevitable for us too — in business, relationships, or life. Resisting it only creates friction.
Lesson: Don’t fight change. Learn to bend, adapt, and grow stronger through it.
Final thought: our dogs are our teachers
Lincoln doesn’t know he’s teaching me anything - but every day, he models a better way to live.
From loyalty and joy to courage and presence, dogs embody qualities we should all practice more often.
So maybe the next time you’re tempted to buy another self-help book, just watch your dog for a while instead.
Their wisdom might be exactly what you need.
