The Herd asks what works. The Pioneer makes it work.
The scariest fear of humankind is the guarantee we expect from every decision.
Whether it is a relationship, a career, a mentor or even a vehicle, we quietly expect success and happiness to arrive on their own, without any effort from our side after the decision is made. And we call that a good or correct decision.
That is why we always ask, “What will work for me?”
Look deeper into that question. We are asking what, or whom, or which one will work for us, instead of how we will work to make it happen the way we want.
How we decide something works is the funny part. If it works for the majority, we assume it will work for us too. But in relationships, careers, education or life, is it truly working? Or are we only convincing ourselves, because there seems to be no other option?
This is called the herd mindset: It must be right, because everyone believes it.
Nothing is wrong with that, until the day you pause and think, “I followed this believing it would work. But it isn’t. Is there another way I can make it work?”
That is the moment the pioneer is born in you. The courage to step first into unknown territory, before anyone proves it safe. And then the effort to make it work, your way.
The moment you step forward, the herd watches and calls your way dangerous.
But why do they feel unsafe, and not you?
— SCD Balaji
