Recently, I was at a conference called "Tribe" hosted by author Jeff Goins. In his opening, Jeff talked about the power of being a side kick. Being the comic book / pop culture geek I am, he had my attention instantly.
Everyone naturally wants to be THE hero. The one who swoops in to save the day, and also receives all the accolades. But what we really need more of are the sidekicks. Everyone wants to grow up to be Batman. No one wants to be Robin.
We tend to think the sidekick is "lesser than" somehow. But it's time to rethink that. The sidekick comes along side, and helps. He leverages what he has for the greater good. He provides a service and value. And THAT should be our goal as well – leveraging our craft to benefit the lives of others. To bring them value. To serve them.
Later during the same conference, another speaker, Carlos Whittaker challenged us all not to look for spotlight moments, but moments where we can take others along with us. He posed the question "How can we use whatever platform we have to help someone else?"
This idea of serving, offering true value and help to others keeps coming up in my world. Even this morning, while I was in a networking meeting, this very topic emerged again. It rings so true to my own personal values of wanting to be help to those around me, both personally and professionally, that i have included this in my overarching purpose statement:
"To create engaging visuals and ideas that bring value to people, and glory to my Creator."
So, I'm ok with being Robin (just don't ask me to wear tights). The more people I can help with my art and craft, the better. You won't see a "Robin" sign in the sky, but if you look around, there is always someone in need of help.
So, what about you? Where can you provide value and service in your craft to be a help to other people? If you're doing that already, where is a new opportunity or expression you might be able to explore? Leave a comment below. I'd love to hear what you think!
Until next time, Same Bat time, Same bat channel.
For more sidekick fun, check out this list of Robin's exclamations!