In a wolf pack and a deer herd, both collaboration and competition are present. Wolves work together to hunt but then compete for the meat, while deer collaborate to protect their young but compete for position within the herd. In modern management, there is confusion over whether collaboration or competition is preferable, as employees are encouraged to work together while also facing merit-based competition that can lead to mistrust. In the Ramayana, Ram exemplifies collaboration by relinquishing his claim to the throne, unlike his competitive brother Ravan. In the Mahabharata, the Pandavas collaborate among themselves while facing off against the Kauravas, highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks of collaboration. While competition helps identify the strongest individuals, it can also create insecurity, while collaboration can lead to complacency among less talented individuals. The narrative warns against viewing collaboration as inherently good and competition as bad, suggesting that both have their place depending on the context. Some situations call for competitive alignment towards a goal, while others benefit from collaborative efforts. Understanding when to employ each approach is crucial in navigating the complexities of organizational dynamics.

by Devdutt Pattanaik in English Mythological Stories

Writen by Devdutt Pattanaik

Category Mythological Stories