Risk it all…

By way of reminder. One year ago this insight made it’s way to me. Another leadership gem from U2…

“You have to reject one expression of the band, FIRST, before you get to the next expression. And, in between you have nothing. You have to risk it all.” This is the melody line from U2’s latest masterpiece, a documentary titled From The Sky Down.

I have watched this, today, for the sixth time. Each viewing I’ve taken more notes and captured more nuance. The band is letting you in on their creative process and it’s freakin’ magic. Studying this film has opened my eyes to a piece of the creative puzzle. And, more importantly, I’ve learned a ton about why few bands, businesses, couples, and communities of any kind, keep it together for long. And, I’ve gained more clarity as to why so few want to become BTL.

Few, want to risk it all. Funny, it is the only way forward. Think about it. Is there any other way to move beyond your current state without embracing this sense of loss?

Friday, I challenged the BTL band to reject the current expression of our work to get to the next. I challenged one in particular. I didn’t want to. I felt miserable all weekend and couldn’t really eat or sleep. Monday, I mostly listened. I heard ONE respond to the challenge. I liked it. Today, further evidence came via an email. My bandmate showed me his rejection of his comfort zone and his embracing of the challenge. I could practically see his growth in his words and in their tone. He could too. Confidence gained a foothold…

Today, as I played U2’s gem one more time, at moment 40 I heard the words that began this blog. I had never heard them here before. I had listened to this five previous times and had only heard the rejection thought at the very end. I had caught the melody line, don’t get me wrong. I had, however, missed the genius that Bono had taken nothing for granted. He had purposely repeated himself at moment 40 and moment 1:26.

Remember, you too have an audience that mostly misses your point. Don’t forget to get really comfortable repeating yourself. And, don’t hold onto where you’ve been for too long. If you do you’ll find yourself running out of energy like the Stones, still singing about brown sugar. Go ahead.

Risk it all…