Pick up a British 2 pound coin and you will see written along the edge of the coin the quote “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants” - a quote attributed to Issac Newton. In fact the origins of this phrase go back to Greek mythology to the hunter Orion, who blind, was guided by a dwarf servant standing on his shoulders. Since then the lesson of this story has been taken by (modest) academics to highlight that they have benefited from the work of their earlier peers. And popular culture have borrowed the phrase with diverse uses from NASA, Oasis, Stephen Hawking, and Umberto Eco.
So as people who want to make change happen, what can we learn from this story that can be a catalyst to our success?
Who is your giant?
In your chosen field of improvement who are the ground-breakers, the superstars, the people that everybody talks about. If you like swimming, why not find out how Michael Phelps goes about his training. If you are an author, learn from Mark Victor Hansen on how to build brands and publishing prolifically. Find the world’s best and check out their web sites, subscribe to their newsletter and soak up everything you can about their philosophy of success. Perhaps your giant is someone from the past. Visit the library or bookstore and buy books about them and books they have written.
Closer to home, find the giants of your city, town or area. Get to know them. Find out where they network. Join clubs and surround yourself with like-minded people. If you want to improve your presentation skills, join Toastmasters. Want to get healthier, join a swim club. Get back to the community, visit Rotary or your chamber of commerce.
What do you mean by dwarf?
In Orion’s myth the dwarf was servant. If we think about this in a more symbolic way, we could say that the dwarf was humble, had an open attitude to change and was willing to serve others. Which is an excellent guide. If you use this approach, and you have the courage, it is possible to approach the giants of your field and ask them for advice. Or you might ask them how you can support them. Read enough biographies of successful people and you will always find a time when they overcome fear, embarrassment and other excuses to approach and seek mentorship.
Success is a process that needs commitment
Put yourself in Orion’s story and imagine yourself as the dwarf. Think about the challenges faced just to climb up on the giant’s shoulders. Learning takes some effort. Picture the struggle, just to keep focused on the horizon and guide the blind walker. Success needs you to focus on the future while managing the challenges of the day.
One proven catalyst of change is to find a mentor so you can “stand on their shoulders”. Fast track your learning by using the ladders they have left behind. Amazing the insights you can find from a two pound coin!