It’s not easy being green. – Kermit the Frog
In the book, The 101 Most Influential People who Never Lived, authors Allan Lazar, Dan
Karlan, and Jeremy Salter expose readers to a litany of fascinating characters
who never existed. From fiction, myth, television, and movies, they reveal how
these characters shaped our society, changed our behavior, and set the course of history.
Among the various characters chosen in the television section were J. R. Ewing and Kermit the Frog. J.R. Ewing, the star figure from the hit series Dallas, was a ruthless, unfaithful, backstabbing businessman. Why is he an important character? Because his exploits and misdeeds were fascinating not only to
American’s, but to viewers worldwide. The “Who Shot J.R.?” episode had a global
audience of 300 million. He’s the arch-type of the crooked powerful businessman
and his character was seductive.
Then there is Kermit the Frog. He captured the imagination of a worldwide audience because he is calm, loyal, responsible, amiable, and cheerful. He’s Bing Crosby, Mickey Rooney, and Fred Astaire rolled into one. Kermit is a frog in search of acceptance, and it is his perpetual journey that makes him special to all of us. He’s the sea of tranquility in a world of oddballs.
Just as Kermit is surrounded by an unusual cast of characters on Sesame Street, you too, may be surrounded by a cast of oddballs in your office. Like Kermit, you can be a leader who sets a good example for others to follow. Although it won’t always be easy, these three tips from Kermit will help you lead yourself and your organization.
No matter how large the swamp; be your own frog. According to official biographies, Kermit was born in a swamp in Georgia. He had thousands of relatives and his biggest problem was being recognized as an individual. Think beyond the size of your organization and to the extended network you belong to and you will quickly see that the size of the swamp you work in can be rather intimidating.
In the November 2011 issue of Success magazine, Daren Hardy writes, “You cannot simply
study the wisdom of others. You have to think through the ideas yourself and tap
your own inner wisdom. Too often we are consumed by some epic hunt for the Holy
Grail. We’re looking for someone else’s secret, answer, formula or big idea in
order to get where we want to go.” Kermit headed to the big city with a guitar, a bicycle, and a big dream. Through perseverance he overcame many obstacles and made his mark. You can do the same
and it begins when you quit trying to be someone you’re not. Be your own frog.
No matter the opposition; be your own fan. As the authors explain, Kermit had to overcome problems of identity that confronted him. After all,
being short, green and edible made him an easy target. Kermit not only succeeded, but did so without sacrificing his calm and cheerful demeanor which is
why he is such an endearing character to us today. Kermit was not afraid to speak up for his beliefs.
In his new book, Every Day a Friday, Joel Osteen writes, “When nobody else celebrates you,
learn to celebrate yourself. When nobody else compliments you, compliment
yourself. It’s not up to other people to keep you encouraged. It’s up to you.
It should come from the inside.” Regardless of the opposition you face, you can
encourage yourself and your team in ways that no one else can. Be your own fan.
No matter the oddballs; be a good friend. When Kermit
set out for the big city one of his first encounters was with Miss Piggy, his
first love who packed a powerful attitude. Kermit accepted her attentions
(whether he wanted to or not) and together they found happiness.
Whether it’s a Miss Piggy or a J.R. Ewing, some people will get on your last nerve as others
grow on you in more meaningful ways. As the authors share, Kermit’s green is
normal for the swamp, but in human society it’s the color of sickness, mold and
Martian invaders. Kermit is an example of a loyal friend who elevates those
around him. While not every attempt at being a friend will be embraced, and not all characters in your life need to be one, your model of leadership is built strong not by being ruthless, but by being kind. Be a good friend.
© 2011 Doug Dickerson
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