The world used to be based on the notion that “success” trickled down from the concentration of the few elite individuals sitting at the top. For centuries, we lived in a “top-down” society in which a few voices ordered, and everybody followed. That was it.
This mindset (which is still very common today) was once pertinent and relevant. In fact, it was relevant for centuries. However, nowadays it’s an archaic notion. Today society is about being systematic. We live in networks and webs, on and off the Internet. We aren’t in control of all our activities, and yet we feel responsible for them. We are interdependent, and not independent, as we were in the past.
For instance, suppose a stranger throws trash on the ground in front of me. If I don’t do anything about it, I’ll feel guilty about an act I didn’t commit. In the end, I feel responsible for the environment and space in which we all live. If I don’t act on this responsibility, I am not fulfilling my duty.
Similarly, if you have a business idea, and ask me to execute it, it could be a great success. But, if you ask for my opinion or thoughts, I’ll probably share your idea, with three other people, and as a group, we might be able to come up with something revolutionary.
Today, the network represents the way we form relationships and the way we survive. It’s no longer about the small, elite minority, chilling at the top of the pyramid. Rather, it’s about having talent all throughout the path.
Does thinking “smaller” (individually), require the same workload as thinking “big” (in a group)?
Want to understand Generation Y? Think network
