Root to Rise.
What’s Your Role in the Ecosystem of Work?
What’s Your Role in the Ecosystem of Work?
Every team is like a living ecosystem—full of energy, growth, and change. Just like in nature, each person brings something unique and valuable. Some people spark new ideas, some help others feel safe, and some bring steady focus to get things done. No one role is better than another—each one matters for a strong and healthy team.
In this activity, you’ll look at a group of nature-inspired metaphors to help you think about how you show up at work. Are you a Seed Starter, helping things begin? Or maybe a Boulder, staying calm when things get tough? These metaphors will help you explore how you contribute to your team, what helps you grow, and how you support the people around you.
Scroll down to read the nature metaphors listed below. Each one shows a different way people help a team succeed. As you read, choose one that feels most like you—and one that reminds you of your direct supervisor. Let these ideas help you reflect as you complete your worksheet.
Nature Metaphors
INITATORS & BUILDERS
Seed Starter – I spark ideas and get things moving.
Root – I hold the team down and nourish our foundation.
Mycelium – I work under the surface, connecting and supporting others’ success.
Nest – I build safety so others can grow and take risks.
ENERGIZERS & AMPLIFIERS
Sunbeam – I help people feel seen and energized.
Spark – I ignite motivation and get momentum going.
Pollinator Butterfly – I spread ideas and connect people across spaces.
Wildflower – I bring color, beauty, and creativity in unexpected ways.
STABILIZERS & FINISHERS
Evergreen – I’m steady and consistent through all seasons.
Boulder – I bring calm and grounding during tough times.
Harvest Hand – I help complete the work and bring it all together.
Ant – I keep things moving with focus and quiet strength.
CHALLENGERS & CHANGE AGENTS
Crosswind – I challenge assumptions and bring fresh air to stuck systems.
Decomposer Mushroom – I help break down what’s not working and compost it into something useful.
Chrysalis – I grow through change and help others transform, too.
FEELERS & RELATIONAL ANCHORS
Raindrop – I cool tension and create space for growth.
Compost – I create rich ground for learning and new ideas through reflection and humility.
Nest – I make people feel safe enough to take risks and bring their full selves.
Sunflower – I turn toward what’s good and help others do the same.
STRATEGISTS & VISIONARIES
Compass Moss – I sense subtle changes and help guide the direction.
Night Sky – I hold the big picture and help the team stay grounded in purpose.
River – I adapt to what’s in front of me and help the team keep flowing forward.