Bet On Everyone
Anyone who has heard me present has likely heard me talk about “betting on leaders.” I’d say you have to bet on those with the most potential because you cannot invest in everyone. Lately, I am reconsidering this idea. Maybe I got it all wrong.
Recently, I was confronted with the idea of sharing opportunity, leadership, education, and even love with everyone, not just with those we find most bright and brilliant. This idea is not terribly efficient and that is why I previously advocated for investing in just those individuals with the most potential. The risk for reward is likely greater when we bet on the sure thing. However, the more I’ve thought about the idea of “betting on everyone” the more I realized this idea also holds merit.
As an educator at an open admission community college I have numerous opportunities to share with all types of people. Some individuals are receptive and surprisingly successful while others I bet on with much potential, disappoint. Given this revelation it may be good for me to quit betting on the few and share generously with everyone. I may be surprised who blooms in fertile soil.
This is certainly a different concept than investing in select people. It is a diversified approach to growing leaders and may take some getting used to, but grace abounds. Who knows, maybe the adage is correct that if people believe in others they will also come to believe in themselves?
“Share opportunities, leadership, and love generously with all you meet this week and every week!”
