The Tengu: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Operations Consulting

Reflecting on my 20s where I spent years in Japan, I’m always drawn back to the enigmatic Tengu. It wasn’t just the name of my favourite hangout; it was the essence of the myth that captivated me. On a recent birthday trip to Japan, I visited for the first time Kurama Dera, the sanctuary of the King of the Tengu, I pondered deeply on how this legend has shaped my two-decade journey in operational consulting.

In the tapestry of Japanese mythology, the Tengu emerges as a beacon of strength, agility, and strategic acumen. These storied beings, with their bird-like features and human-esque traits, have commanded both respect and awe across the ages. Yet, it’s their potential lessons for today’s dynamic world of operational consultancy and training that truly fascinate.

A Harmony of Heritage and Progress

Renowned for their martial prowess and guardianship over hallowed woodlands and peaks, the Tengu epitomize the harmony of safeguarding heritage while mastering the dynamics of conflict. This mirrors the quintessential challenge for operational consultants: honoring time-tested methods while championing the relentless pursuit of progress and ingenuity.

Visionary Foresight and Flexibility

Once omens of warfare, now custodians of peace, the Tengu personify the essence of transformation—a pivotal quality for any consultant or mentor. Their fabled prescience and tactical insight are in lockstep with the pivotal duties of operational consultants, who must foresee potential hurdles and craft winning strategies to surmount them.

Profound Mastery and Insight

The Tengu’s ties to the martial arts and their legendary tutelage to historical luminaries underscore their profound mastery. In parallel, an adept operational consultant or trainer must hold a deep-seated grasp of their domain, empowering them to disseminate knowledge adeptly and nurture the growth of skills within their clientele.

Eloquence and Persuasion

Beyond their daunting repute, Tengu were also conversationalists and debaters, as chronicled in myriad artworks. This prowess in communication is echoed in the hallmarks of an effective trainer, tasked with elucidating intricate concepts and swaying learners to adopt novel methodologies and practices.

Unwavering Pursuit of Perfection

The Tengu’s relentless pursuit of martial refinement mirrors the unwavering dedication expected of trainers and consultants. They must perpetually polish their expertise and acumen to deliver unparalleled service and guarantee their clients’ triumph in operational endeavours.

Embracing Playfulness and Mischief: The Tengu’s Teachings

The Tengu, while embodying wisdom and strength, are also celebrated for their playful and mischievous spirit. This aspect of their character is not merely for entertainment; it represents a profound understanding of the human condition and the importance of joy in learning and growth. A good operational consultant appreciates this need for levity and engagement, recognizing that a playful approach can often disarm tension, foster creativity, and encourage a more profound connection with clients.

 The Joyful Art of Consulting

 Just as the Tengu might play tricks or challenge the status quo with a wink and a smile, an effective consultant knows when to infuse a sense of fun into their work. This doesn’t mean taking the job less seriously but understanding that playfulness can be a powerful tool for innovation and problem-solving. It’s about striking a balance between the gravity of responsibility and the lightness that invites open-mindedness and experimentation.

 Mischief as a Catalyst for Change

 The Tengu’s mischievous nature also serves as a catalyst for change. In the same vein, a consultant must sometimes challenge preconceived notions and push clients out of their comfort zones. Doing so with a touch of mischief can turn a potentially stressful situation into a learning opportunity, where the ‘trick’ reveals a deeper truth or a more efficient way of operating.

Incorporating the Tengu’s playful and mischievous traits into the philosophy of operational consultancy not only aligns with an appreciation for the client but also opens doors to new ways of thinking and working. It’s a reminder that at the heart of every successful operation lies the human element—where joy, humor, and a touch of mischief can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and excellence.