I have been reflecting on the swings of society recently.
There are subtle differences in the wording between individualism and individuality, but there is a big difference in their manifestations. As a result, this is what I have observed:
Group one
- Individualism: This view centres on being self-absorbed and self-centred. The sense of purpose and focus is centred on one’s personal desire for fulfilment, without regard for the effect on others or their community. People who live in individualist cultures focus on independence, competition, and personal achievement as important.
- Equality: This view centres on giving equal rewards and status to all regardless of effort (beyond moral respect and upholding the dignity of their personhood).
Group two
- Individuality: This view within our society allows the growth of the individual in their unique personhood as a gift to the surrounding community to new aspects and expressions of humanity.
- Equal opportunity: This view provides reasonable adjustment to make opportunities accessible for all people. It requires the participant to take ownership and responsibility. Importantly, it provides non-restrictive pathways to enable them to be elevated, through the development of their talents, to any position that they are competent to perform in for the good of themselves and the wider community.
The question is, where do you sit?
Group two brings joy and peace through service and looking outwards, to the individual and society. We know that as social creatures, we mirror others and are greatly affected by those closest to us. So how do we lean into this and receive the benefits of this knowledge? We surround ourselves with like-minded people and we focus. We do the hard work to maintain our inner world and we analyse our focus.
Group one brings selfishness, insecurity and ultimately loneliness. Often we proclaim something as unequivocal truth, only to find later up the track that we missed something or a piece of the puzzle was missing that we just couldn’t see at the time.
If we can harness a spirit of humility in ourselves so we can learn from others, we will become better and stronger in whatever endeavours we attempt. We must also create environments and a culture around us that does not punish the weaknesses and admissions of others but honours their willingness to be vulnerable and seek assistance, and respond by offering help.
I am happier in group two. Are you?
Remember that being different is our biggest asset and we don’t have to be like everyone else. If you need a keynote speaker or presenter on neurodiversity, private message me today to book your next presentation.
Thanks for reading! I’d love you to share your thoughts in the comment space below!
Dave Brebner.
www.davebrebner.com
As a neurodiverse public speaker and presenter, Dave Brebner specialises in using educational neuroscience to explore pathways for professionals and engage in inclusive discussions for diverse audiences. Living with Tourette’s Syndrome, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety Disorders since an early age, he is married with six children and one grandchild. He recently added a Master of Educational Neuroscience to his qualifications to further deepen his understanding of the neurodiverse mind, including his qualifications in Trades & Training, Adult Education, Vocational and Workplace Training, and a Master of Education degree in Career Development. Dave is a professional member of the Career Development Association of Australia, and you can learn more about Dave’s work at www.davebrebner.com.
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