Aesop’s fables have long been a source of timeless wisdom, and The Lion, the Tiger, and the Vulture is no exception. This powerful tale teaches a valuable lesson about scarcity versus abundance and how true leaders recognize that success is not a competition—it is something we can all share.
The fable tells the story of a lion and a tiger who both come upon a waterhole at the same time. Instead of sharing, they begin to fight over who has the right to drink first. As they battle, a vulture watches from above, waiting for one or both to fall so it can feast on their misfortune. The fight continues until both the lion and the tiger are exhausted, realizing too late that the vulture has been patiently waiting to benefit from their conflict.
Leadership Lessons
There is Plenty for Everyone – The lion and the tiger viewed the water as something to fight over instead of something they could both enjoy. In leadership, collaboration often leads to more success than competition.
Don’t Let Ego Blind You – Both animals were so caught up in their own pride that they didn’t see the greater danger. Leaders must keep their focus on the bigger picture rather than petty disputes.
Work Together Instead of Against Each Other – The vulture represents those who take advantage of unnecessary conflict. When leaders unite instead of compete, they prevent others from exploiting division.
Real-World Application
In student leadership, teamwork is key. Whether in ASB, sports, or the classroom, students can benefit from understanding that success is not limited—there is enough recognition, opportunity, and achievement to go around. Instead of competing, leaders should lift each other up.
10-Minute Leadership Lesson: The Power of Sharing and Abundance
Objective:
Students will analyze The Lion, the Tiger, and the Vulture fable to understand how collaboration and an abundance mindset lead to stronger leadership.
Materials Needed:
A copy of or video retelling of the fable
Whiteboard or chart paper
Two small objects (to represent the lion and the tiger)
Lesson Plan:
Introduction (2 minutes)
Ask students: Have you ever felt like you had to compete with someone when, in reality, you both could have won?
Introduce the fable and its key message.
Story Viewing/Reading (2 minutes)
Play a short video or read the fable aloud.
Discussion (3 minutes)
Why did the lion and the tiger fight instead of sharing?
How did the vulture take advantage of their conflict?
Can you think of a real-life situation where people competed unnecessarily?
Activity (2 minutes)
Place two objects (lion and tiger) in front of the class and ask: If these two leaders learned to work together, how could they benefit?
Have students brainstorm solutions where collaboration leads to a better outcome.
Closing Reflection (1 minute)
Encourage students to think about ways they can apply an abundance mindset in their own leadership roles.
Final Thought:
Leadership isn’t about fighting over limited resources—it’s about realizing that success grows when we work together. The next time a challenge arises, remember: there’s plenty for everyone. This lesson can help students shift their mindset from competition to collaboration, strengthening teamwork and leadership in any environment. Let’s inspire the next generation to see that leadership isn’t about scarcity—it’s about creating abundance for all.