To start this discussion, there is a fundamental desire in each person to be part of something that is bigger than themselves. People desire to leave a positive legacy for others to learn and follow. Even our English word, Religion comes from the Latin word “ligare” means to link our lives with something that is bigger than ourselves. Yes, even in the basic concepts of faith we learn there is a desire to connect with larger causes, reaching beyond ourselves.
To answer the question why people rally around various causes, let’s consider three key thoughts.
People seek connections with other people – Generally speaking people desire a sense of community which simply starts with people getting together. Connecting centers around d shared purposes. Accomplishment of tasks and goals is the bond that keeps people together. Having a sense of purpose creates an extra level of connection that can lead us to make a movement.
From late 2019 to the present the world is being awakened to a consciousness of being connected of the lack of connection. Global citizens are asking quietly 3 key questions: (1) Do you know me? (2) Can you help me (3) Can I trust you? I would suggest now more than ever, people are awakening to a desire to make a difference and realigning their life and resources in order to accomplish this sense of connected purpose.
People are seeking participation of something bigger than themselves – Busyness is not satisfying! Now more than ever we are searching for that which is meaningful. A life of purpose is satisfying! It is immensely more gratifying to connect to larger causes. Ultimately, we ae looking to connect to a cause that allows us to express our deepest desires and highest aspirations. Said another way, people want to create memories by participating in something that is memorable.
If you question if this statement is true, then ask yourself why people would be willing to wear different color bracelets identifying a cause, or wear something pink to identify with Breast Cancer Awareness, or to participate in the Ice-Bucket Challenge? When enough people sharing the same values follow their desires to make a difference and do it together, a movement is born.
People want to receive value from giving – Many times we focus on the the “cause” itself and feel that is the sufficient reason why so many people are joining. However, we cannot discount the fact that many times people desire to feel their effort was meaningful and worth their investment. It is a “feel-good” emotional driver. That said, the ultimate return for people is this: Give enough to others long enough and we receive more than we gave. Love people deeply enough and love return many times over. Lift people high enough and we get lifted even higher. Consider the following progression of adding value that was birthed by John Maxwell.
Desire – “I want to add value to others.”
Question – “How can I add value to others?”
Community – “I know people who add value to others.”
Observation – “I see how they add value to others.”
Joining – “Can I help you add value to others?”
Equipping – “I know how to add value to others.”
Action – “I am adding value to others!”
Feedback – They tell me I am adding value to them.”
Fulfillment – “I am content when I am adding value to others.”
Motivation – “I want to keep adding value to others.”
Sharing – “Let’s add value to each other.”
Growing – “Let’s find others to add value to.”
Changing – “Adding value to others is changing me.”
Receiving – “Those who I added value to have multiplied value back to me!”
Life Mantra – I want to make a difference, with people who make a difference, while doing something that makes a difference, for such a time as this!
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Garry Brackett brings his experience as an executive coach and non-profit leadership specialist to every conversation on the Shepherds Advantage Leadership Podcast. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a practical exploration of how leadership principles intersect with faith, culture, and the daily challenges of making a meaningful impact. Garry engages with a diverse range of guests-people who are actively shaping their communities and organizations-to uncover the real-world strategies and personal convictions that drive effective, compassionate leadership. You'll hear discussions that feel like a thoughtful mentorship session, covering topics from organizational health and personal resilience to the spiritual foundations that guide service-oriented work. This podcast serves as a resource for anyone, whether in ministry, non-profit, or broader community roles, who seeks to lead with purpose and integrity. Tune in for authentic stories and grounded advice that equips you to navigate the complex landscape of modern leadership with confidence and clarity.
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