Solidarity Sunday: Are You a Horse or a Camel?
In 1957, Alec Issigonis changed the automotive world. Despite mocking reviews from car critics and peers, Issigonis designed the British Mini that became a cultural icon, and the most popular car in the history of Great Britain. Over 60 years and 10 million cars later, Sir Alec Issigonis' big idea is still alive today and The Mini is one of the most revered European automobiles ever made.
He is also widely credited with the famous quote:
"A Camel looks like a Horse that was designed by a committee."
Suffice to say Mr. Issogonis was a "Horse", not a "Camel".
Horses lead. Camels follow.
Despite being widely criticized, he was a leader with bold and different ideas, who had the courage to see it through. Had he been a "Camel" and capitulated to the committee, the Mini may never have been built.
The Horse takes action. He believes in his ideas and has the charisma to sell them to a committee. The Camel deflects and defers to the committee.
The Horse is nimble, fast, and agile. He takes risks because he knows it is inherent to being effective at his job. He is not job-scared or afraid of the criticism that will inevitably follow. He trusts his gut and knows what is right for his organization and its members. He was elected to lead, and lead he will. He always operates in the best interest of his members, even as he knows he cannot please them all. His only focus is the future of his organization.
The Camel is methodical, slow, and plodding. He never dares, never takes risks, never does anything new. He defers to various 'committees' that have been set up within the organization. It gives him protection and a built-in excuse to deflect criticism should anything go wrong. He is risk averse, preferring to wait and see what others have done before he acts. He avoids criticism. His only focus is his survival.
The Horse thinks "How can I make this happen". He encourages new people to get into leadership and enjoys the exchange of ideas. His only goal is to set the pace.
The Camel thinks "How do I limit my exposure?" He is afraid of those who express interest in leadership, fearing them as a threat to his future. His only goal is to shield himself from criticism.
The Horse knows that the risk of failure is the price of success. He knows there is no such thing as a "low risk, high reward" strategy.
So…Are you a Horse or a Camel?
Speaking of Great Leaders...
Part of what makes your Union story so enduring is it's rich history of our respective Locals. Union Up would like to congratulate UA Local Union 72 on their recent "Years of Service" Banquet. We are proud to have designed both their 68-page commemorative book and the "History of UA Local 72" video, both prominently displayed at the event. On your local union's next hallmark anniversary, let us help you tell a story that celebrates your rich history, and looks forward to a bright future.
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