It often seems as if the only path to success is through ruthless competition. Entrepreneurs are often warned about the so-called “wolf culture”, where the main focus is on tough competition and self-interest. This mindset fosters an environment where success is seen as incompatible with compassion and where many believe that in order to win, others must lose. But is this the only way to succeed in business?

IN The Inner Mountain Foundationwe believe there is a different path that takes inspiration from the quiet strength and adaptability of water. Unlike the prevalent “wolf culture,” which involves a zero-sum game, our approach advocates a culture of service to others, where success is not measured by the loss of competitors but from the collective flourishing of all involved.

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“The Way of the Wolf” vs. “The Way of the Water”

To illustrate these two contrasting approaches, I often use the metaphors of wolves and water. of the way of the wolf it's about trying to be the only winner, where success is achieved at the expense of others. This sharp mentality, epitomized by the notion “your loss is my gain,” creates an environment where businesses compete fiercely, often leading to short-term wins, but long term volatility.

However, this relentless competition comes at a cost. When businesses focus on outmaneuvering each other, they create an unstable environment where success is temporary and built on the suffering of others. There is always a bigger wolf ready to knock him down before him, perpetuating a cycle of conflict and instability.

In contrast, the way of water offers one more stable and fulfilling approach. Water – with its ability to adapt, nourish and sustain life – embodies qualities that can transform the business landscape. By embracing the way of water, we focus on building environments that foster collective growth and are where each participant can thrive without harming others.

A real world example

Consider a simple example: a gas station opens on a busy street corner, attracting customers and thriving. A wolf-like entrepreneur might see this success and open a competing gas station down the road, hoping to capture the market. Soon, other gas stations follow suit, leading to fierce competition. Eventually, only the largest gas station will remain, but the street will lose its vitality as businesses focus only on their competition.

Now, imagine if, instead of another gas station, another entrepreneur opened a cafe next to the original station. This addition draws even more people to the area, who now stop in for gas and coffee. Inspired by this success, others open a grocery store, a boutique, and maybe even a small playground. The street transforms into a thriving ecosystem where each business supports the others, creating a vibrant community that benefits everyone involved.

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“Water Road” in practice

The principles of the waterway are not just theoretical – they can be applied to every aspect of your business. For example, in DHGATE groupwe have supported these values ​​since our founding 20 years ago, empowering micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and entrepreneurs to participate in global trade. By creating value for all stakeholders rather than simply maximizing our profits, we have built a sustainable business model that benefits our partners and customers.

These values ​​also lie at the heart of The Inner Mountain Foundation, an international women's empowerment organization that I founded last year. Our community is built on education, support and principles of collective growth – much like the ecosystem in the gas station example. We focus on giving our members the resources to grow, give back and create a sustainable, mutually beneficial environment.

Build for good, not for scale

Basically, the waterway is about building for good, not just for scale. It is about creating a business culture that prioritizes well-being, COOPERATION and long-term sustainability over short-term gains. When we feed others, we receive food in return, creating a cycle of growth and flourishing that benefits everyone involved.

As founders and leaders, we must embrace sustainable business practices. Waterway offers an ethical and sustainable solution to the challenges we face in the business world. By adopting this approach, we can contribute to a more sustainable global society, where success is not determined by the downfall of others, but by the collective flourishing of all.

The waterway isn't just a metaphor—it's a guiding principle that can transform the way we do business, leading to more sustainable and fulfilling results for everyone.