Wake Up from Sheep Mode!

Nature teaches and inspires us in remarkable ways. From the Wright brothers studying birds to understand the mechanics of flight, leading to the invention of the airplane, to ant colonies showcasing remarkable organization and cooperation, inspiring algorithms for optimizing network systems, resource management, and problem-solving strategies in both technology and business.

If we only pay attention and remain open to learning from various influences, these lessons can be incredibly helpful to both our personal and professional growth. Today, we want to share with you a lesson a teammate shared in our morning huddles. FYI, we always ask teammates to share what they’ve learned over the week. ?

This week, one teammate restated the need to wake up from sheep mode. Wondering what that means? Keep reading here. And if you care to know, many of us are unconsciously in that mode. So it's not something far from us.

What is Sheep Mode?

In nature, sheep are seen to instinctively follow anything that moves, whether it’s a wise shepherd or a careless wanderer. This behaviour keeps them always in a state of following and not leading. They always take orders and get comfortable with just being.

People and brands alike easily fall into this mode by blindly following trends without considering if they align with their own identity or goals. This lack of originality can lead to a loss of uniqueness and a diluted identity. In a world saturated with “look-cool” products, standing out is not just an advantage but a necessity.

Trend-chasing often results in inauthenticity, and audiences can sense when someone or something lacks genuine passion or purpose. Moreover, trends are fleeting. What’s popular today might be obsolete tomorrow, leading to short-lived success instead of sustainable growth. For instance, think of how quickly celebrity endorsements of products went from being a must-have to today where we prefer to use micro-influencers or everyday users with authentic stories, or how now Afrobeat and dance moves are used in every promotional campaign, the new cool.

How do you embrace your authenticity?

The first step to maintaining originality is understanding who you are or what your brand represents. Identify your core values, strengths, and unique selling points. This self-awareness will guide you through the sea of trends. Create a vision and mission statement that reflects your long-term goals and the impact you want to make. These statements act as a filter, helping you evaluate whether a trend aligns with your objectives.

Keeping an eye on trends is important, but be selective about which ones to follow. Evaluate trends critically and ask yourself if they complement your identity and contribute to your goals. If a trend doesn’t fit, it’s okay to pass on it. Originality often comes from experimenting and taking risks, so don’t be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Innovation doesn’t mean ignoring trends entirely; it means using them as inspiration to create something unique.

Are you engaging your audience enough?

Engage with your audience and understand their needs and preferences to gain valuable insights. However, stay true to your identity while incorporating their feedback. Balance their input with your vision to create something that resonates authentically. Consistency builds trust and recognition, so stay true to your brand or personal identity across all platforms and interactions. This doesn’t mean you can’t evolve; your core message and values should remain steady, even as you adapt to changes.

Reflect on your journey by looking back at your experiences and achievements. Identify patterns and moments when you felt most authentic and successful. These reflections can provide clues about what resonates with you. Seek inspiration from various sources but avoid direct imitation. Combine different elements to create something uniquely yours. Inspiration should be a spark, not a blueprint.

Recognize that your individuality is your strength. Celebrate what makes you different and use it to your advantage. Authenticity attracts genuine connections and loyalty. Originality takes time to cultivate, requiring patience and consistent energy.

It’s not about following the herd but about leading with your unique voice and vision. Step out of sheep mode, and let your originality shine.