We drove to the theater with great anticipation hoping to get tickets in time for the 7:45pm showing of the brand new Captain America: The Winter Soldier. The great ticket seller at the box office confused us when he said, “7:45 ?? The next show is at 7:15pm.” We were early, but that meant we couldn’t get dinner before we went to see the show. We decided to stay and head in to the theater. The staff had us stand against the wall and form a line because the prior showing hadn’t ended. We were an hour early.
As we stood there, the line to get in grew . . . and grew . . . and grew. I didn’t remember a line forming before a movie like this since I saw the various Star Wars movies as a teenager. Everyone was patient, but you could feel the energy building and building as we got closer to the showtime. The line was opened, and my son and I walked in and got the perfect seats for us. The entire venue was filled in the next 10 minutes.
I didn’t know if others had a tradition like I do with my teenage son. You see, every superhero movie that comes out means that we will be there to watch it. I think we’ve made every Marvel, DC Comics, and smaller brand movies that have been released. It is a shared experience that I truly cherish !!
It was a great movie !! (You really should see it !!) I loved it because Captain America is “odd” compared to most superheroes and most people in general. You see, he’s completely selfless. He is 100% others focused. I love this attribute about him and want to encourage this in others as well.
By the incredible turnout at the movie, I can surmise that people find this attribute attractive as well. We don’t see it often enough. We live in a society, and work in companies, that are more self-focused than others-focused. It seemed that people are looking for a “hero” of some sort.
I’m not going to get into the definition of what a “hero” is because most heroes are active behind the scenes doing things that others never notice. You see, I believe you can be heroic by being there for others and meeting their needs. It doesn’t have to be something magnificent, but it does need to be something tangible.
So often in HR, and in articles about culture, we focus on making sure to identify the WIIFM (What’s In It for Me) factor. What if YOU were what’s in it for others? What if YOU chose to reach out and be there to meet the need of someone else in work, life or the community?
What would happen if YOU helped someone else AND expected nothing in return? I think the world would be an amazing place !! I know that it’s unlikely that many people will read this and try this, but I believe that the “Captain America” effect can happen in your life and in the lives of others.
So, this week shed your ego. Open your eyes and see who could use a hero. Then step up and act. You’ll be glad you did !!
Great article, Steve! I am reading ‘Give and Take’ after seeing the author (Adam Grant) speak. The book explores EXACTLY that theme – givers are more successful in the long run because of their selflessness…but only with the right mindset. Good book – you might enjoy it,
PS I love the Captain Amerca movies. He is more “old fashioned” because of his belief in people. Interesting commentary on how we live.
This sentiment reflect the beauty of your character. It certain speaks to my heart as one who truly believes in being a blessing to others at every opportunity. I will be watching to see the shares and retweets.
It seems to all go back to servant leadership and doing for others in our lives, communities and workplaces. Thanks for the reminder! Can’t wait to see the movie.
Knowing how to put others’ interests above yours I think is a trait specific to mothers. It is hard, most times, you give yourself away in order to please the others. It is not easy to do this without expecting anything in return. You are right! In order to be able to work in human resources you have to be a strong and balanced person, you must have patience and availability.