Superhero or Sidekick: Which One Are You?

I couldn’t resist clicking on a video today about a sold-out showing of the original Batman & Robin movie in Seattle. I’m pretty sure I saw every episode of the TV series as a kid. Who knew it would offer me three powerful career development insights 30 years later?

#1 - All Superheroes Have Sidekicks

As I thought about the “dynamic duo” it occurred to me: no superhero goes it alone. They are lucky enough to have one or more individuals who believe in them – who are willing to lend their own special talents to help the superhero accomplish what mere mortals cannot.

#2 - Superheroes Aren’t Known for Warmth & Appreciation

I also observed superheroes tend to be serious and intense. They have big problems to solve and no time to waste. So, while they are grateful for the support the get from their partners in solving major problems, they often don’t show much warmth or appreciation. It’s just a job and someone has to do it.

#3 - Sidekicks Don’t do it for the Money…Or the Recognition

Sidekicks aren’t suck-ups or tag-alongs (besides, superheroes can spot phonies a mile away), they are people who genuinely want to do good work. They want to be part of something bigger than themselves. They recognize they don’t want the superhero’s responsibility and public persona – at least not yet. But, they do want to accomplish important things – and they know they can be instrumental in the superhero’s success.

Which One Are You & Why?

In my experience, most satisfied professionals are a superhero or a sidekick. They either, 1) strive to take charge of solving problems and making things better - putting their own reputation on the line and making tough decisions for the greater good. Or, 2) are steadfast and focused on supporting the person who is leading the effort to ensure they get the desired results. For example, I'm passionate about liberating people from The Golden Handcuff Effect and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. There is no way I could do this alone. I’m lucky enough to have two amazing partners named Ariella and Lindsay who help me execute the daily vision.

You're Neither? This Could be the Problem

Those who aren’t happy in their career are sometimes dissatisfied because:

A) They are trying to go it alone as a superhero and have nobody supporting them.

B) They are the sidekick in the relationship and really want to be the superhero.

C) A negative force, out of their control, is defeating them.

In these cases, we have to choose (everything is a choice, read more on that here), to do something disruptive and change our approach - or suffer the consequences. Staying in one of the above too long can make you turn to the dark side. (Okay, I’m being funny, but there is a grain of truth in all humor.)

If you're part of a “dynamic duo," compliment your partner(s) in the comments below – they deserve some recognition!

Not part of a “dynamic duo” yet? Tell us why…

If you want to read more of what I've written, check out my articles on Inc.com.

P.S. - First time reading my posts?Thanks for taking the time to stop by! Not only do I write for Linkedin, but I'm also founder of a popular career advice site,CAREEREALISM,and currently run the career coaching program,CareerHMO. I hope you'll check them both out!

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CAREEREALISM’s Founder, J.T. O’Donnell is a nationally syndicated career expert and workplace consultant who helps American workers of all ages find greater professional satisfaction. Her book, CAREEREALISM: The Smart Approach to a Satisfying Career, outlines her highly successful career-coaching methodology. Purchase her e-book of CAREEREALISM for only $9.95 by clicking here !

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