Celebrating Dandelions

Let’s value what grows in unexpected places. My friend is an Emerging Leader. They stopped going along to get along, and their work friends have noticed. They complain to my friend:

You’re different. I don’t like how you’ve changed.

My friend is sacrificing popularity to become a leader. They decided to speak up instead of building resentment. They are standing up for their beliefs and ideas – despite the expectations of others.

My friend reminds me of dandelions.

If you’re a homeowner who loves a green, weed-free lawn, you probably know dandelions are not very popular. They are considered an “invasive” species and difficult to control. 

That’s the thing about dandelions and emerging leaders. They show up in unexpected places and grow – despite people who want to limit them.

It’s not easy being a dandelion when someone wants you gone simply because you’re not what’s expected at first glance. As my friend’s true leadership colors emerge, they could be weeded out of their current company and forced to uproot their family for a new opportunity. Or, they could help their work friends take a second look and value what grows in unexpected places.

Let’s take a second look at dandelions.

Dandelions are boldly colorful with magical properties. They grant wishes when you blow on their seeds. Dandelion greens are nutritious and medicinal. Dandelions are much more valuable than popular opinion leads people to believe. 

Letting native wildflowers thrive is smart. They support local ecosystems. They attract bees and other pollinators. And, they reduce maintenance costs as compared to maintaining the status quo of non-native green lawns.

My friend is similar with their own magical leadership qualities. Smart companies promote the people who challenge the status quo and stand up for innovative change.

Together, let’s value what grows in unexpected places. Let’s celebrate the bright colors and magical resiliency of dandelions and emerging leaders.