Collaboration - a masterclass from nature
Nature is a masterclass in collaboration. A stunning film about two of my favourite local species from BBC Winter watch recently got me thinking.
Otters and kingfishers are both river dwellers, yet not rivals. As otters glide through the water, they stir up fish, creating the perfect hunting opportunity for kingfishers.
Neither takes more than it needs. They are fishing side by side, in harmony.
This pattern of behaviour can be described as commensal symbiosis. That is, two species coexistng in the same habitat (symbiosis), and one benefitng
from the actions of the other, while causing no harm (commensalism).
The concept of symbiosis offers a powerful lesson for how we live and work:
🦦 Collaboration over competition - instead of fighting for space and resources, find ways to lift each other up. Success isn’t a solo act.
🩵 Balance giving and receiving - when we support others, we create environments where we can all flourish.
🦦 Thriving together - a healthy workplace, community, or system benefits everyone. When individuals are cared for, the whole ecosystem becomes stronger.
🩵 The strongest ecosystems - whether in nature or in our own lives - are built on mutual support. What if we applied this to our workplaces? Our friendships? Our communities?
Let’s move beyond a mindset of scarcity, comparison and competition to create environments where collaboration fuels success, well-being is shared, and we can all have the opportunity to thrive.
This applies also to the world of medicine. True symbiosis means recognising that care must flow in both directions—patients need doctors, but doctors also need support, rest, and respect.
When we nurture those who heal, the whole system flourishes.
Where do you notice symbiosis in your work and life - I'd love to know
And remember if you are lucky enough to see an otter foraging
along the river, don’t forget to check the branches of nearby trees for a Kingfisher! 🦦 🩵 🦦 🩵
Watch here https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0bhy3c4
