Operation Fred - What a Street Cat Taught Me about Leadership - Chapter Three

Today, we dive into Chapter 3 " titled “May I Have This Dance?” In this chapter, Michael shares the evolving relationship with Fred, the stray cat who turned their daily routine into a dance of patience and persistence.

1. Initial Encounters and Naming Fred:

Michael shares how Fred, a stray cat, initially appeared on the other side of the glass door, sparking a cautious “dance” of trust. Despite Fred's uncertain gender, the name "Fred" was chosen and stuck. Michael reflects on the significance of naming and how it created a bond.

The cat's unpredictable visits and the challenge of getting Fred to eat were just the start of their unique relationship.

2. Feeding Challenges and Building Trust:

Michael’s first attempts to feed Fred while she was also on the porch were met with hesitation and quick escapes. Over time, Fred began to trust the presence of Michael, which gradually helped him accept meals and this showed signs of improvement in their relationship.

Michael adapted the feeding strategy to build trust, leaving smaller portions to encourage Fred to stay longer. Fred’s behavior started to change; he began to lounge and groom on the deck, indicating growing comfort.

3. Emotional Rollercoaster:

The anxiety of missing Fred on some mornings was palpable.

Michael’s relief and joy upon Fred’s return, particularly after he went missing for a few days, highlighted the emotional investment in this evolving relationship.

4. Health and Integration Plans:

Despite Fred’s growing strength, he continued to avoid drinking from the water bowl, raising concerns about his health and habits.

Michael, with help from TNR (trap neuter return) expert Joyce, planned to capture and care for Fred, aiming to integrate him into their home.

5. Fred’s Perspective and Future Steps:

From Fred’s viewpoint, the transition from scavenging to receiving regular meals improved his strength and confidence. Michael is now focused on capturing Fred for further care and potentially making him a permanent part of their lives.

The ongoing challenge of balancing the needs of Fred and Penelope, the resident cat.

Catch us next time for another episode of the Shock Your Potential Podcast!

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Who is Michael Sherlock?

Don’t be fooled by the name, the hair color, or crazy shoes. Michael Sherlock is serious about business. She is dedicated to creating positive, productive, and profitable workplaces, and helping individuals and businesses unlock their ultimate potential.

Before launching her global training company, “Shock Your Potential”, Michael was Vice President of US Sales for two multi-national medical device companies, responsible for net revenue exceeding $75 million and as many as 500 employees at a time.  Michael has been referenced in Forbes, quoted in Yahoo Finance and is a frequent media expert concerning hiring and employee management on local and national news outlets such as 6ABC in Philadelphia, ABC 13 in Houston, Daily Blast Live, and more.

Michael is a two-time best-selling author and recently released her third book, in a totally unique format, Operation Fred – What a Street Cat Taught Me About Leadership. Her fourth book, The Enlightened Workplace will be released in 2025.

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Have you met Fred? Buckle up for an adventure with Fred, the feline friend who’s here to show you how leadership, friendship, and life lessons can be as delightful as a catnap in a sunbeam!

Welcome to Operation Fred—an online book bursting with 25 chapters of feline wisdom and fun. Each chapter is a purr-fectly crafted tale paired with a leadership and life lesson that will leave you purring for more.

Curious about what Fred has to share? Dive into Chapter One and Lesson One, now available on our website. Link: https://thefredchronicles.com/about-fred/

 Get ready to be whisked away into a world where business smarts meet cat charm!

Learn more: https://thefredchronicles.com/

Get ready to be whisked away into a world where business smarts meet cat charm!

Follow us today to know more about Fred:

• Website: https://thefredchronicles.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/operation.fred.2024/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/operationfred/

To connect with Michael follow her on:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelasherlock/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shockyourpotential/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/MichaelSSpeaks
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/SYP_Leadership
• FB: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelSherlockSpeaks/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shockyourpotential/
• YouTube: https://bit.ly/2E1TcA8