You might say it's a chicken and egg thing.
Very few of us would argue with the idea that we're shaped by our culture. Just ask the parent of a kid who spends hours and hours playing video games. And why do we feel the need to dress in style? Where did the phrase "You do you" come from? It came from an intensely individualistic culture.
Culture is based on ideas. And these ideas had to come from somewhere. At some point, someone had an idea rooted in a value -- something they considered important and worthy of devotion. Then someone else bought into that idea. It began to snowball until finally an entire group of people not only adopted the idea but were actually shaped by it.
So are we doomed to be the victims of whatever culture we find ourselves in, whether on a national level or even down to the level of the family?
People create culture. People create change. According to authors Brett Kunckle and John Stonestreet , ideas are spread by champions -- artists, storytellers, entrepreneurs, educators, among others. But contrary to popular belief, champions don't have to be "influencers" with millions of Instagram followers. You can champion an idea where you are. If there's something you consider off base about your culture, why not change it? You may think your one little voice or action may have no effect, but remember: every cultural trend you see was started by someone. And we're not talking here only about social media influencers.
This is empowering. Especially for those in positions of leadership. What kind of culture do you want to be? What do you want your company or organization to be known for?
Are you a parent? What kind of family culture do you want to create? What things do you want to hold up as good, true and beautiful?
Yes, we are shaped by culture. But we also create culture.
What kind of culture are you making where you are?
I'd love to read your comments here.
Have a great week -- and Happy Thanksgiving. Come to think of it, a culture of gratitude wouldn't be a bad place to start.