The Importance of Being Discovered and Discovering Others

I was recently introduced to an amazing book called Loser by Jerry Spinelli about a boy named Zinkoff. Zinkoff from the beginning of the story is the epidome of joy. Not caring about anyone or anything except what makes himeslef and in his mind, others happy. Showing up to school with a 3 foot giraffe hat on and yelling "Yahoo!" when the teacher explains that the day is a new day of learning. Zinkoff throughout shows that he moves to the beat of his own radio and there is nothing that will change that.

There is a chapter in the book called "Discovered" where Zinkoff describes how the beginning of 4th grade when he was "discovered" by his teacher. Instead of being placed at the back of the room because of his last name, Zinkoff is allowed up front because the order is now reversed. His teacher encourages him and builds up his individuality, paying close attention to who he is and what he needs as a learner.

Throughout the book there is an ebb and flow around Zinkoff's life, clearly showing why the "society" around him (playground, classroom, field day) see him as a loser. Yet in his story there is a boy wishing to be discovered like in 4th grade and cared about in a way that is his own.

We all want to be Discovered.

We yearn to be found.

We strive to be noticed.

We seek to make an impact.

We crave validation.

Just like Zinkoff. Yet the reality is if we wait around to be discovered, we might never experience the discoveries in ourselves. Instead, like the old saying goes, "treat others the way you want to be treated".

Zinkoff shows two very important lessons in leadership. First, true leaders are not preoccupied with the opinions of others; instead, they are driven by a genuine desire to uncover the greatness within every individual they encounter. Second, regardless of the challenge or endeavour at hand, committing oneself, even if it entails the risk of being foolish, can ultimately facilitate the process of exploration and revelation.