When Java first came into our family she kept her distance. Sixteen pounds of Toy Australian Shepherd / Rat Terrier intelligence wrapped in a tiny black and white body. She was cautious at first, then became my shadow. After retiring from the fire department and working my business full time from home, Java followed me everywhere: the office, the kitchen, the chair by the window. Why? Behaviorists call it imprinting. In other words, young animals bond to the creatures around them and learn social cues from them. Puppies learn who to trust; adults learn who to follow.
I was struck by that idea. If a puppy can pattern itself after a human, can people pattern themselves after a leader? We too can be pack animals, running with a crowd and looking for strong leaders. We pick up mannerisms, language, habits, and attitudes from the people closest to us. Imprinting happens over time, often so quietly we do not notice it until the pattern is fully formed. Here is the simple truth: who we surround ourselves with shapes who we become. Look around and notice — who is in your pack? Who is influencing your daily rhythm, your language, your decisions? You may be surprised at what you discover.
Next week we will continue with this theme of imprinting.
