Jul 11, 2007

Part of a greater whole (community)

As Americans, we like to feel like individuals, but we also enjoy the feeling of being part of a greater whole. Better still, we want to be an individual within that whole- usually a leader, possibly a lone wolf, or even the team member who gives slightly more, or slightly less than needed. Sometimes we just want to be someone who "blends into the crowd". Even then, we're not Part of the crowd, we're simply an individual who is hiding within the crowd.

I guess it boils down to a connection with the herding instinct or community nature and the strong struggle to be a distinct entity. All boy scouts wear the same uniform. It identifies us as a group- that we are "one for all" and all that rot. Individually, we stand out with badges (although there are minimum requirements which all must meet) service (which everyone MUST do), and simple, individual flair. Some work very hard and advance. Others get by and advance. Still some simply enjoy themselves, not caring about moving to greater responsibility. Who is better?

Gaining an Eagle Scout rank (or similar high rank within an organization) comes with great responsibility, a fair amount of influence within the organization, and looks good on paper. All members get a great set of memories.

In the end, it is the individual drive that sets high achievers apart. Usually this drive isn't on their own part, but at the urging of others when young, or a realized goal for adults. The community encourages the child, whereas usually the individual must spur themselves on as an adult.

Take some time, and consider the community. Encourage your friends and relatives. Make a friend (or relative). Consider the future, and your place in it. Say to your self:

Today I am (doing what). I want to be (doing what). What will it take to get there...

Make a list, starting with what you want at the end. What will it take to get that. For each of these items, consider what it will take to get to that point or goal. Work backwards until you reach your current point. Then turn that list into a plan.

EXAMPLE:
Today I am (living in NC). I want to be (living in NY) what will it take to get there...

  1. living in NY
  2. have a place to live (I won't be living there without one)
  3. have a job (I can't have a place without one)
  4. interview for a job
  5. Update resume and blanket email to employers, job agencies, and temp agencies
  6. Review resume (and portfolio or website if needed)
  7. Decide if move is an actual option
  8. Live in NC
Do you have a plan? Let us know what it is!
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2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oi, achei teu blog pelo google tá bem interessante gostei desse post. Quando der dá uma passada pelo meu blog, é sobre camisetas personalizadas, mostra passo a passo como criar uma camiseta personalizada bem maneira. Se você quiser linkar meu blog no seu eu ficaria agradecido, até mais e sucesso. (If you speak English can see the version in English of the Camiseta Personalizada. If he will be possible add my blog in your blogroll I thankful, bye friend).

July 13, 2007 at 1:42 AM
Anonymous said...

I saw some of your work in Graphic Design USA last year. Would you post your materials on the blog? that might be cool!

August 5, 2007 at 10:08 PM

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