My friend Katie Todd recently sent me this terrific video of a goofy guy dancing his heart out at a concert. At first, people seem to be avoiding him. Until one by one, and then in droves, people begin to join in.
In a brilliant voiceover, Derek Sivers points out what there is to learn about leadership from this event: Be willing to stand alone and look ridiculous. It’s not about you, it’s about the movement. Create community. Be public. Leadership is over-glorified. The first follower transforms a lone nut into a leader. Watch:
I would add:
1 – Pursue your passions and your joy with all of your heart. Mean it. Play big. Celebrate your enthusiasm like a lone nut. Be responsible to what you love.
2 – Stay with it. It can take a long time – sometimes a VERY long time – before others are ready and willing to join you in your dream. Just keep on doing what inspires you.
3 – Make space for others to join you. Be visible. Be compelling. Invite others in. Make it fun, for you and for them.
4 – As momentum builds, let go. Let yourself become one among many. Let your vision build momentum of its own. Let other people add to what it can become.
Sivers says, “When you find a lone nut doing something great, have the guts to be the first person to stand up and join in.”
YES! And…
When you are a lone nut doing something great, have the guts to keep doing it, no matter what.
Here’s to the success and fulfillment of your joy, your dreams, and your movement!
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