The Consequences of Polarity
By Shivani Chokshi
Our world splits people up into leaders and followers; entrepreneurs and employees; trailblazers and regulars. When we think of role models, names like Nelson Mandela, Steve Jobs, and Mother Teresa pop up. Singular people who single-handedly led entire populations towards freedom and prosperity that changed everyone’s lives for the better, right? Wrong. Without these leaders’ support and mentorship network, they would not have had the impact in the world that we still read about to this day. Without the Steve Wozniaks and Ronald Waynes of the world, Apple wouldn’t have been anywhere close to the scale it has reached today. When we polarize people, we fettishize the leader, ignore the various systems that have led to their impact, and ultimately, only put more pressure on ourselves and others to become managers and sayers rather than executors and doers.
The people behind “Steve Jobs”
The world is becoming more heavily reliant on empowering more individuals to become leaders in their chosen fields. The system tends to prioritize name recognition and fame over offering support and maximizing overall impact as a result of your deeds. Additionally, social media platforms only catalyze the creation of more “Steve Jobs” in the world, without recognizing the value and impact of the various people who not only supported his journey, but helped him realize it.
This interactive systems map highlights some of those who have helped Steve Jobs throughout his journey towards creating his series of revolutionary technologies. Teddy Hill rekindled his passion to learn new things. Neem Karoli Baba taught him the ways of spiritual enlightenment. Lisa Brennan-Jobs taught him how to claim responsibility as a father and caretaker. The people in Jobs’ life were instrumental to his professional and personal growth, that allowed him to become the “Steve Jobs” we admire today. Though he deserves credit for being the inventor, entrepreneur, and visionary of our time, we cannot forget that he didn’t do it alone.
What’s the point?
The point we’re trying to make is that to be a supporter in one person’s journey is just as important or sometimes more important than striving to be a leader, yourself. Though certain environments encourage us to become public figures like CEOs, presidents, and celebrities, there is an overall lack of people who are foundational to who we are and who we grow to become in the coming future. Namely, the teachers, mentors, family members, and colleagues (i.e. “the support system”) get left behind.
Your takeaway
Aim to be a “supporter” in someone else’s life. To be able to reflect on your life and know that you have made a positive impact on one person, means that you have contributed to that leader’s vision as a whole and that should make all the difference in the world. So when we tell others about our jobs and when we teach the coming generations about what it means to be a leader, don’t speak in polarities. Don’t dilute the value that comes with being a “supporter.” Change the narrative and be the person to proudly support the leaders of tomorrow by recognizing your value today.
Resources:
- My Impaction: Innovation News
- What leaders must learn about the First Follower principle
- It’s Not Necessarily Best to Be First
- Harvard Crimson: You Do Not Have to Be a Leader
- Leadership Roles: If Everyone is Leading, Who is Following?
- How To Use Your Strengths To Be A Good Follower
Our Video Session - Changing the Narrative on the Power of Followers:
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