First Follower: Leadership Lessons from a Dancing Guy

This is a really inspiring video Derek. So many people ask "how'd that guy/girl ever make it?" about rock stars, actors, poets, politicians - you name it. As your video so eloquently demonstrates, the answer is simple: Because they had balls. Talent or not, that's all it takes most of the time.

how Palin becomes president

But seriously, it does take guts. Which should be a lesson to all those very talented people out there who don't take chances and wonder why less talented people make it. If you go for it, you deserve it. If you don't, you don't. :)

Right on, "The First Follower: Linchpin to Creative Leadership"

This is one of the most inspiring (and inspired) moments I have ever seen. Thank you, Derek...

bit sad when you think about it! :-)

Saw this video a while ago. Very cool to use it as an instructional video for leadership. Derek, what happened to the box in your thinking?
love peace happiness~
Louis

Acute observations--whether team/co building or crossing the proverbial chasm.

yes, let's all be followers and copy someone else!

this is the first one that's really, REALLY resonated with me.

For niche musicians, it not only shows the importance of sticking to your ridiculous niche-guns, but it shows how important it is to show appreciation for fans (first followers) when you're just starting out.

So which are/were you...? leader or follower?

rada

This line says it all:'The best way to create a movement, is to courageously follow and show others how to follow.' Similar to teaching someone how to fish: a great way to pass the torch.

This is the simply the best thing I've seen all week, and that is saying something.

Rockin'!! What was the Nike commercial? Ahhh...Just Do It!

Amazing! Thanks, Derek!

Saw the video before but no less awesome the second time around. Perhaps, Derek, you should go back and give praise to your first musician friend who asked you if you would put up his music for sale on CD Baby when you founded it. Maybe that didn't take balls on his part but I'll bet you were felling kind of alone until that moment when enough of your friends signed on to create that tipping point.

Awesome...how simple human nature can be.

Great and innovative advice Derek!

This is the first time the argument has been put so succinctly.

"The best way to make a movement, if you really care, is to courageously follow and show others how to follow."

I think we all secretly want to be the leader and control everything. However, there is a lot to be said about the fearless follower. That is authenticity. They are not following the crowd. They see something they like and jump in with both feet.

The world needs more fearless followers.

This is great. Did you not show this earlier? Or was that Music Business Radio? or was it CD baby DIY podcast? I don't know anymore. You're all helping me out TONS but you're all brothers and it all bleeds into one for me. It's great for me though. Thanks for trying to share any info you can get your hands on! It's so much appreciated!!!!!!
You are a friend in need!

Wow! I still remember the first lady that bought my first CD. She was a librarian from Conn. I was a grad student and had been asked to speak with one of my professors at a convention in Birmingham. Even though it was not all that appropriate--I carried about six CDs in my right pocket and five dollar bills in my left--brought a cd boombox and asked if I could play my cd while folks were getting seated for our talk. (on radical change)
Afterwards, several folks came up to buy my professor's books and my cds. The first lady took off the wrapper and asked me to sign it.
"But I'm not famous," I said and she said, "oh, but you will be. " :)
Now how is that for a first follower? I may never be famous--but that lady gave me confidence that someone else truly liked my music and thought I should stick with it. And I have--and every cd gets better and better. :)

Great take on the video. I interpreted this video very similar to you:

http://www.tawheedkader.com/2009/07/what-it-feels-like-to-be-an-entrepreneur/

In in this case, the Japanese corporate saying,"The nail that stands up, is hammered down."does not apply. Thank you Derek! This was one of the most lifting, inspirational messages that I've heard or have observed in some time.It put a smile on my face!
Right on the money, great narrative & use of the footage. How true!

awesome!!

I've seen this video before and it is really inspiring and thought provoking, as with everything that comes from the great Derek!

Didn't you post this one before?

Will comment more later. :)

I found this fascinating. But what about leaders who are too wacko, i.e. pathological, or evil? I suppose if the social timing is right, even they can find followers.

That's exactly how songnet works, & I'm often the dancin' fool:

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/ci_14335322

But it seems to work.

Jimi
TheSongNet.org

This one really made me think. Thanks!

Great job Derek. I'm also giving you a standing ovation.

Yeah Derek...one of my favorite inspirational videos.
Great point about the power of first followers and the leader's treatment of them as equals.
Sounds like the beginning of a great street team.

That video is really getting around!

Thanks for another thought provoking post.

A presto,
E.

I love that both sides of your brain are involved in your observations. When I went on CD Baby, I didn't personally know anyone else who had. Now nearly all my musician friends who publish are on there too.

derek! this is a fantastic video - i love it! i typically don't watch videos but you kept me engaged the entire time.

the post is very insightful and a fantastic lesson... I never realized the tremendous role the brave follower plays.

ps - you have a wonderful video voice :)

this was awesome! i actually found it MOVING!

Amazing! Nurture your first few followers, it's not about you, and have the courage!

Thumbs up!

I think you really hit on something -- the first follower is more important than the leader. A movement, company or group can all be followers, but they can only be as successful as that first follower because he sets the precedent.

Brilliantly done!
I loved this vid when it came out last summer..
excellent!!

I was the follower and the leader. I wrote this poem because I was inspired by the actions of another.

A million Closets
By Rich Baumann
Silent music
Trapped in a million closets
Waiting to be played
Instruments alone
Waiting…
Waiting for hands to touch
Waiting for hearts to warm

Longing hands
Waiting
Things lost
Music silenced
Silent music
Trapped in a million souls
Waiting to touch
Lonely Hands
Waiting to touch
Sore Hearts
Lonely Hands
Wanting most
To share in the healing Music


Within one week I was given five thousand dollars worth of musical instruments to give away in New Orleans.
The million Closets Project has now given away over twenty nine thousand dollars worth of instruments.

We will never be fully satisfied with what we get, until we are satisfied with what we give!

I fucking LOVE the beautiful simplicity and rightness of this post. We are in Canada, being handed a load of shit by our government, and we have seen this dynamic played out -- ending in a surprise for many: positive and motivated community in action. What we started with is about 225,000 "first followers" who joined a Facebook group called Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament, started by Chris White. I get it now!
I am re-posting this.
Thanks a bunch --
LJ

The young man was having fun, and to hell with what people thought. Point taken for leadership though! Being a leader takes huge balls these days.

Great video. I've been using that video with my clients for a while, and they all love it! I really like your deconstruction of it too.

Great first comment Toggo!

I don’t suppose anyone else out there found this a frightening or disturbing as I did. I am not necessarily a leader but neither am I a follower. Followers scare the daylights out of me. Sorry.

Inspirational? Yes. Funny? For sure. Leader? Only by the strictest definition.

awesome, Derek! just great!

So my soundcard is broken, going in the shop today.
I watched this without sound and wondered where this was happening, what song, if any, he was dancing to? Was he at a concert? Or were they all just dancing without music?
I wanted to go back and count how many men had to do the stupid dance before women joined them.

Simple. Great!

Illustrative of this aspect of human nature. Clearly it can be used for good, bad, and neutral. What matters ultimately, then, is the quality of what the leaders and the first followers are wanting to get others to do.

Dancing for joy I can endorse, suicide bombing unfortunately makes use of the same part of human nature. Discernment is vital to our evolution.

I'm glad to know I'm not the only "shirtless nut" in the world. Best 3 minutes of education I've had in a long time!

Damn Derek. I think you may be a genius.

This is a great lesson in how leadership works!

It's a very good example of how other people follow and come out of their box, get involved after they see that their is acceptance, and the interaction can benefit them; whether it's fun, entertaining,gives them a new perspective, or is a life changing event!

We should all think of this example in pursuing our life long dreams, whatever they are - Thank you for sharing Derek!

George

BRAVO!! Amazing story. What a brilliant angle! Thank you.

Wow, simply superb Derek!
Truly agree ... just role on your own with complete dedication ... followers will come automatically by looking at your sincerity towards what you do!

Brilliant, simple, succinct- I can see why you received a standing O at TED. I can only hope to learn the lesson as well as you just taught it. Thank you Derek.

Nice take on this in terms of the lens of leadership Derek. (As always the spaciousness you allow with all your communication is so powerful).

Here's another take on Dancing Guy and why the social engagement happens from our Tummelvision.tv show http://bit.ly/5xMuT3

that's why I follow you :)
great video....
please, more!

Thanks Derek, What a great observation. You are doing an amazing service to get people thinking. You have a cute smile too.

Excellent video Derek and why shouldn't you have a standing ovation?? Well done with this one.. TED huh..?? Wow...I remember when you were just a keen enthusiast. Now you're a TED speaker. Congratulations. All the best
always eileen

Sivers is a F!KN Genius!

This is very useful. Thanks Derek.

Was that your VO and your insight?

If so, this is a slam dunk and soon to be viral video.

I saw your Japanese address video in an unrelated web search a while ago.

This one will live on in cyber space (my humble opinion)

Vernon

Unfortunately, the lesson of this video also has its very dark side as well and, as such, the video falls within the category of "propaganda." It is imperative to examine both the pro and con of any argument, and this video is focused only upon the former aspect.

In fact, the great tragedy of our society is what can best be described as "the lemming effect," in which insane activity often begets even more insane activity.

For example, the sports utility vehicle (SUV) craze is a classic example of "the lemming effect," in which a terrible form of transportation, in terms of materials manufacture, fuel consumption, aesthetics, etc., is popularized via a Big Media brainwash, suggesting that it is very "cool." When enough lemmings enter the picture, next thing you know, the movement gains enough respectability such that it manages to corrupt even notable social activist luminaries such as Bob Dylan, who transmogrified into a spokesman for GM Escalade (hard to believe but true!).

Another example: the resurgence in the popularity of fur epitomizes "the lemming effect," resulting in a massive escalation in the unnecessary cruel slaughter of innocent animals solely to feed a Cult of Celebrity interpretation of what is "cool."

That is the sad reality of the lone dancing guy: he may birth some great ideas, innovations and movements, but equally true, he often popularizes the worst kind of mass insanity.

interesting. It also shows how much people need to get up and move their bodies. A very healthy and soulful expression in itself.

Did you see those who were sitting near the dancing mob? Leadership lesson #25

The more infectious your leadership, the harder it is to sit still in your presence!

that is one of the most amazing things I've ever seen. And your first follower comments are spot on. I'm wondering about this application to history. Many paralels (not all happy) there.

M

WOW!!! I love this, and your message couldn't have come at a better time.. This is really going to transform my playing field today.. Thank you so much....

In the USA the political leaders tend to be attorneys. Attorneys, I am told, address boxes, box by box.
It makes for a stiff life. What would one say if the Congress & President were more capably considered with the thoughts of say #earth_architects, rail road engineers, nurses, teachers, water well drillers, farmers, astronomers, or other walks of life not so inclined to jump from box to box ? Join us !

I love that video and your commentary is spot on. Especially like the part about the important role that early followers play in "validating" the lone nut.

Thanks for your thoughts.

this is a pretty brilliant post.

Excellent analyzation. It reminds me of the opposite, a high school mentality where 99.5% dont dare put them selves at risk.
I hope to always be shirtless and the 2nd guy also!

Very insightful, Derek! You never hear about the first follower--well explained.

Saw this a while ago through Seth's site. It's cool. I tried it out at an airport, starting the q for a flight that had been delayed.So everyone was waiting around wondering when it was going to come. Two of us went to the start of the queue. About 30sec later another person joined, 15 sec later the third did and then everyone else within the next minute or so. Not a movement I know as everyone wants to get on the plane but something similar going on.

For those who think they've seen and heard this before, Seth posted this video with a slightly different take on it, regarding tribes and membership and all. Similar concepts, from very different points of view.

No surprise to me that Derek and Seth both noted lessons in this.

O.K. Now that we have seen the instructional video, its time for action. Everyone should apply this thinking to what their doing. Start dancing.

Primate psychology is fascinating, isn't it?

I like Derek's spin on this video but it scared the @#$! out of me. Reminds me of Nazi Germany and hate groups. Blind followers starving to be part of something, anything. Dangerous stuff. I have never scene anything like that before. Guess I am looking at the "glass half full."

Derek,

This is fantastic. I'm going to share this on my blog.

Thanks

excellent POV. I think that is why publishers, A&R, and agents are so important to an artist cause they can be the number 2 and 3 that say, "hey, this artist is worth checking out". Unfortunately, very few publishers, A&R, and agents are willing to say that about a crazy dancing man unless all their friends are already saying it. Maybe, we need a training seminar on being #2 and #3.

"...The first follower transforms a lone nut into a leader..."

SIMPLE...BRILLIANT...TRUE!

~rhonda

Reminds me of when John Lennon was doing what he called SCREAM THERAPY, he recorded the songs WELL, WELL, WELL and COLD TURKEY and probably others I don't recall right now during this period of his life in the 1970s.

Absolutely uninspiring clip in and of itself, but when put in the context of leadership it truly comes alive and becomes an invaluable tool on the qualities of leadership and becoming a leader.

Thnx for sharing Derek,
Sam

You are on fire, Derek

Derek, bringing this back to music and their fans (in the 80's/90's).... this really explains why so many "first followers" or hardcore music fans (often of indie bands), often feel betrayed when the bands they "dared" to spark, go on to be popular and part of the "in" crowd.

Really nonsensical for them to feel this way....but nevertheless a good way to capture the first follower's leap into the strange dancing band.

Outside of music... this a terrific point of how "sole" leadership is overrated.

Simply great, Derek! I feel inspired! Thanks!

great insight Derek!

Leadership takes courage and someone willing to stand alone. However, I love how you brought up the "first" follower. The first follower is so important and is the start of a bigger movement. I enjoyed the video and loved how it was presented with your commentary. Great stuff Derek and thanks!

So THAT's how FACEBOOK happened! wow.

Awesome crystallization!
(both the video, and the insights)

Derek!

Love this video! It touched me, as it has taken me years to get this band going on a kind of crazy idea I got. Finally I got a great band and WE now are getting going and are all going in the same direction. Folks love US.

Thanks!
Jac

I agree with this article and I am experiencing it myself in my music life and in a non profit organization I am involved with. I absolutely love reading what you have to say whether I agree or not I always get to thinking about things and I am always challenged so thank YOU!

Leaders love their inspiration more than themselves..!!!
:-)
Rachel

I would like to meet the person who stood up first to lead off the "standing ovation". Bravo! :o)

indeed... nurture the people who really love what you are doing in the world.... and are confident enough to champion you... these relationships are gold.. and yes amazing what enthusiasm can do! m

As always, brilliant. There's a lot to be said for the first follower. Because he didn't just get up there and do his thing. He was inspired and then used his sphere of influence to invite others to be inspired.

We all want fans. But what we really need are inspired fans - fans who not only enjoy the music for themselves, but will invite all their friends to enjoy the music as well.

It's not who you know - it's who THEY know that makes a movement.

And remember - Dance like nobody's watching!

Your Music Business Coach,
Debra

hi Derek, the young man was dancing alone for awhile. doing his thing..being free in the landscape..a time to dance and let go..then as you said the first follower set the new tone and the spark was lit..amazing how from one leader the flock pours like a thunderstorm into a crowd..why does it take so long for others to believe? LIke the domino affect right..lay the dominos out one by one and then push the first one and watch it all unfold...my new cd came out today and your video made me realize I need to find some followers to dance with me and my new solo piano product..life is all about growing and learning..let's all dance together and not be shy to let out that child wonder that lives in all of us..Mark

an interesting point is that the leader, and at least his first followers, were young and "like" him. new dogs vs old dogs. same breed vs mixed breeds.

they had already self-selected by being at this concert - perhaps "the landscape" is also important to where a subset tribe can emerge strongly?

In my consulting I urge creatives to "find their tribe" - and if there isn't one - be the leader who helps one come into being.

The tribe creates the scene which then enables the scene to carry (and expand) the tribe.

- Lisa Lepine ProMOTION Queen,
consultant to creatives

Even better, create the perception of social proof...put the first follower on the pay roll.

I learned that in Kung Fu Panda:

The only secret ingredient is..

you.

Most leaders seem to confuse ego with strength ...

or maybe I should say too many - especially in bands ...

Haha... I was expecting to see that "Where is Matt" video that's circulating but was pleasantly surprised. This is awesome :)

Brilliant, inspirational! Thank you for that.

In return, check out for free my new song "Valentine's Day", just released. http://tinyurl.com/yapy9jo [pardon the somewhat unrelated self-promo here, but time is of the essence in getting my first follower on this!]

Stream it for free on my homepage (click on my name).

Enjoy, and spread the love 'n affection!

Still one of my favorite YouTube videos of all time.

glorious. I was always the eccentric nutter, partying on my own, doing cartwheels, swinging from branches, singing to the traffic on a pillar with my underpants on as a hat. I went through time where I had much of that knocked out of me, thought it was useless, but I re-embraced it, welcomed it home, and never looked back. I never forget to thank all those who followed or that without them I might still have left all I value hiding in a closet :-)

This was the best post ever, Derek. I'll echo Rab Townsend way up there at the top. The importance of appreciating your first followers cannot be overestimated. My old fans have given me publicity, money for car repairs, web services, you name it. I just make music. They have made my career.

thanks Derek .... always thought provoking AND inspirational

( George Bush was thought provoking WITHOUT being inspirational)

WOW! How insightful! I loved this. This is one of your best. Of course, all of you messages are informative and inspiring but this was a total education. This reminds me of that teacher you had that cut to the chase and taught you everything you needed to know about theory in, was it, four lessons. He found a way and you followed. AMAZING VIDEO! I'M definitely sharing this one with my students. Thanks soooooo much Derek.

Great video. Great lesson. The interesting thing is, dancing guy wasn't trying to attract followers or start a movement. He just wanted to dance, and did.

Scott Andrew: Thanks for the information. It's kind of heartening to know that the guy danced for a long time before anyone else followed his lead. Means that if you're out there by yourself for a while, it doesn't necessarily mean you're doing it wrong.

every one is a leader so put it this way who you know before leading matte4rs most

Noah was a lone nut. Jesus was a lone nut. Galileo, Tesla, Thomas Paine, Martin Luther King, Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor -- lone nuts.

There's a lot of leadership in the crowd.

Fantastic video and insight. Thanks

I love it! I had read your initial post on this topic and didn't think the TED talk would be anything new, but you honed it into a gem of an insight!

Derek, you gotta be nuts to be saying this, but I like it!

As the front man/singer for my band Myron and the Kyniptionz for 13 years, I am living proof of your topic. When we perform I am the "nut" rolling on the floor, dancing in the middle of the crowd and dancing on the tables. Once 2 or 3 join in it quickly becomes a party. Yes, it takes guts but that's why YOU call us "nuts". People loved to be rocked! and we always get more gigs.

Huge lesson for the Christian Church.

Funny this is the second blog post today that referenced this video.

To quote Alice's Restaurant:
"You know, if one person, just one person does it they may think he's really sick and they won't take him. And if two people, two people do it, in harmony,
they may think they're both f****** and they won't take either of them.
And three people do it, three, can you imagine, three people walking in singin a bar of Alice's Restaurant and walking out. They may think it's an organization. And can you, can you imagine fifty people a day,I said fifty people a day walking in singin a bar of Alice's Restaurant and walking out. And friends they may thinks it's a movement."

Thanks for the post

1, 2, then it grew
3, 4, add some more

Derek,

Seriously good point my friend. Thanks for sharing this. I'm glad to hear what you got a standing ovation for. You are a great leader because of just how much you care about everyone else.

Thanks for showing us the way thus far!


Cheers,

Andrew

Beautiful illustration. Love the emphasis on being about the movement and not about the leader.

I will certainly share the lesson. In the meantime, does anyone have a good best practice (or experiential tale) about effectively nurturing first-followers?

Thanks!

I saw the video the first time. I think your thoughts about the first follower are fantastic and a great addition.

Thanks

Thought I was watching some old Saturday Night Live skit.

Kind of like the Beatles. John started something and the others followed to greatness.

WOW! interesting points Derik.

This is a great video. Thanks, Derek.

I think the biggest factor here is the leader (original nut) is enjoying what he is doing oblivious of what others are thinking. That's a crowd puller. Reminds me of Tom Sawyer getting the fence painted and something so banal as that on a Saturday afternoon by his friends, simply by pretending that painting a fence is by far more interesting than playing, swimming or even lazing.

Thanks for sharing this Derek.

I wish I had posted earlier... I feel a bit like the guy in the crowd not wanting to be ridiculed, however...
This very exampled worked for Hitler... One nut...

wow, that was great! that is often how a mosh-pit starts, one or two guys inspiring the others to let loose!

We're fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance.

~ Japanese Proverb

Derek,
What perfect timing, as I have a big gig this weekend that I think is the beginning of something very special. I will be treating these first followers very special, that's for sure.
Rhan

Very good example

Are you saying you used to be a lone nut!?

You never cease to inspire and amaze me Derek. I am following you.

This is wonderful Derek:) Such a new approach on looking at leadership! Although I've been the leader type most of my life, now I learned it is actually the followers who make you the leader, otherwise you're just a fool:)))
Thanks Derek, again, very inspiring!

Cool. Thanks, as always...

Derek my friend this is FABULOUS! I was laughing all the way through it. It reminds me of the man who toured the world doing his dance>>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlfKdbWwruY I would love to put your vid on my 'Leader's Rising site as a post http://www.kelliefrazier.com) for the youth to see. Any chance of that happening and I'll link it back to you?
Sure! Never need to ask. Always feel free to copy, repost, or link to anything on my site. Thanks! — Derek

Ha! That is a great example!

Too Cool!!!!!!!

Hats off to those few who remained sitting!

Absolutely the best....Too too funny. Even better narration. BRAVO!
Thanks, Gary Knight, The Fries Band

we CAN have the results we want!
Thank God He has a real plan following the REAL MAN (J.C. of Nazareth!!) :0)

I love it! Never thought about the 1st follower nor the 2nd. Great stuff.

brilliant, Derek!

So the point here:
it takes nuts to follow the lone nut. And that's real leadership.

I like it.

bd
@bdunc1

Brilliant Derek! Way to slam dunk in 3 minutes flat! BTW, I dream of attending TED one day...

--Terrace Crawford
http://terracecrawford.com
http://twitter.com/terracecrawford

brilliant. loved it. truth in simplicity. a practical observation of the magic. BTW - Hugh's book is another practical example, though seemingly more difficult to grasp. I feel like dancing to some live music on the grass right now. You coming?

I am overcome with insight

Silvers' video is a fantastic example of the power of momentum--in our campaign work, we call it the bandwagon effect. It starts small, in "Do the Doable" steps, and then grows; and grows. Ultimately, leading people means building momentum as you transfer ownership your leadership to them. It's not about the leader; it's about the followers.

David Morey
Author, The Underdog Advantage

Doesn't change the fact that the guy was just a wanker, dancing like a wanker, who managed to attract other wankers. The "first follower" was obviously just taking the piss out of him and the second wouldve joined in with anything going.

You guys are mistaking herd stupidity for something of value. Unless herd stupidity IS the value, which wouldn't surprise me.

The comments here are evidence of the same phenomenon and now I am the shirtless dancer.

But I bet no one follows me.
This is about the reader, not the dancer. Please see sive.rs/you-not-them">sive.rs/you-not-them">sive.rs/you-not-them — Derek

Its true, the first follower is way under-appreciated. Too often do people think theyre so good and look down on the first people that follow them as "just one of the rabble that will eventually follow me" without giving them the support they require to boost them. You want your first follower to be highly redeemed and help make them influential... because nothing is better than being followed by someone highly influential.

Great observations Derek. I often encourage entrepreneurs to start a movement, but I must admit that it never occurred to me how pivotal the first few followers are in making that happen.
Tsufit
Step Into The Spotlight! : A Guide to Getting Noticed
www.spotlightbook.com

This is truly inspiring, Derek, quite a great observation, thanks.

I love this example! It stands for everything I try to pursue in my own personal life. If I'll ever make a million the first person to follow me should make two or more!

Fantastic!

I think I once blew an interview because I said I preferred to be wingman to being the leader. It's in my nature. I've always thought it's a very valuable role. But I didn't fully understand how valuable and demonstrably valuable until now. Thank you, Derek!

i'm giving you a standing ovation right now ;)

Another reminder of how truth or important principles are often so simple :)

Derek -
That "Leadership is over-glorified" resonates with me. Simple but insightful. You've started a movement with this dancing guy.
Cheers,
Bob.

I am a great first follower. I am also often the lone nut. But, its finding MY first followers, and so on....ah the road lengthens. Thanx for the gift. Probably won't write a book, but WILL use the concept. Also, in addition, do need the window of opportunity for the lone nut to be noticed by the first follower. That window is the key, they follower has to see, and catch on.

this thought is exact

Awesome! Great insight.

I would be shocked and run away and hate the people. I think the people were stupid, ok is just dancing and the sun wa shining so its ok to let oneself go.

... as long as you don't follow someone off a cliff. Good article!

The comments are really illuminating. Seems like most miss the point that YOU could start a movement by BEING a first follower. Instead we seem to concentrate on how to get OTHER people to be OUR first followers (or even create fake first followers!) And we worry that we "don't follow someone off a cliff." For some reason, it sounds like most people would rather BE a crazy loner nut than be associated with one. But then you don't get a movement, you just get a bunch of lonely nuts.

Thanks Derek for the lesson on how to be fun and deep at the same time. You have also apparently awakened the sex drive of the marketing dark matter. We will have to start calling you Buddha Buddy for abstinence from the call of the ego.

Derek,

My favorite post from you ever. Destined to be a classic.

-Bruce

Way to go, Derek!!

Some good ideas here, although nothing new. I'd like to say being a good leader is definitely about teaching others to be leaders in the sense of aspiring to inspire others to follow their own path that makes them feel alive and happy. That inevitably means standing out from the crowd and embarassing yourself sometimes because we live in a world of mental slavery. And it also means sharing that with others. The less slaves, the more colour, the more fun, peace and sanity.

This video goes a long way in explaining why we have so many idiots in political leadership positions.

In nature, it seems that everything is just waiting for you to laugh, the whole of nature laughs with you. It echoes and resounds and that is really the value of life. When things go all right, every body can laugh, but when everything falls apart, and then if you can still laugh (or dance) that is evolution and growth.
there is nothing in life that is more worthy than your laughter. This energy in this video made me feel that way.
thanks for sharing it!

Tina Shafer

Great thoughts here once again Derek. Either way you've got to be crazy to be a leader or crazy to follow. ;) I'm definitely the crazy one.

Haha, what a fantastic and educational story! Lone nut to leader... sounds familiar.

first guy, second guy, third guy. Hmmmm okay. . .How does that apply to anything? What about the music being played, which supposedly inspired the first dancer? Which then makes the first guy the second guy. And how does all of that apply to a music career when the first dancer is left all alone, and the band plays on? Ouch. . . . Derek, I applaud your standing O. Congratulations! That's really wonderful for you. You've proven the theory you've put forth about the "second dancer" because there are a hundred or so second dancer/first followers proclaiming your genius. The fact is there is an ocean of people responding not because they are called to do it to leave the world better than they found it, but in hopes you will respond, find their creative endeavors worthy of your investment and find their own nirvana through your annointment. . .Is that cynical? Sorry. Happy Valentines Day!

I think this would make an interesting song in Am, give me a few days and I'll see what I can come up with.

Sivers you are the man.

great stuff, Derek!

Of course it is also possible that the First Follower theory only applies to novelty dancing. :-)

There definitely is genius in all this.

would we call this action is the act of conformity, this explains everything in just a few minutes.

Great Mr. Sivers

timothy

The first requirement to stand up in public and do anything, sing, play guitar, act etc. is balls!! Sara Palin is a "dancing guy"!

Great post, Derek! One of the best points to remember is that if YOU are Dancing Guy (as many of us are), you need to treat your First Follower as an equal, and recognize that he or she is the most integral part of the movement.

Nice job!!!

"There is no movement without the first follower."

Well if I'm the nut and I want to lead a new movement, how do I get the first follower to follow me? Am I at the mercy of such people?

Hey Derek,

We work with colleges to increase engagement on campus and last spring several people sent us this video to see how it fit into our leadership training.

It's exciting to see that we are drawing similar conclusions, though months apart, with ours more geared to engagement in education: http://bit.ly/9H2V8u

Nice work on spreading this to the world!

Love it, simple and insightful!

Each time I watch this video and read along with the script, this important lesson becomes more inspirational and memorable. Thanks, Derek.

Great work, Derek! Your theory would seem to frame the old story of the sheep, leader of the flock, leading his faithful followers over a cliff. Of course, in this case, the leader (first follower) will lead everyone else in a more (hopefully) productive direction. Truth is, if the theory works in one direction, there's no reason why it shouldn't work in the other. Thank you for planting this valuable "seed of thought."

Derek! Great video. So bummed to have missed TED this year. What a perfect 3-minute presentation for that audience. Love it!

I've read through 242 comments. I think #240 sums up the most important aspect. It's beautiful that you have so many people's attention, and comments. Even though I was not your first follower, I have become a addicted to the shifts in consciousness that your discussion cause in me.

Hmmm, who was YOUR first follower? The one you KNEW was important to your movement?

I've got to admit something. My ego got in the way with this blog post, because I'd seen this dancing guy before, and loved it. So I didn't bother to click play on the video. I read through your post and liked it, but I felt like something was missing. Lucky for me that I finally came around to clicking play, as a last resort.

There is something about your particular voice that's a LOT more powerful than the written words you use. Maybe that's just me.

Some people look at the guy dancing, or the concept of honoring the first follower as worthy of some kind of scorn. God the guy was dancing, and so was the second guy and the third. DANCING! What is the reason that people would ridicule the initial dancer (idea guy) or the first or second followers? I'm thinking most of your readers are musicians (like me). But why would some people choose to see this article as potentially harmful? What is it about a crowd that makes people question whether the crowd will be used for good or evil? And as artists, don't we want BIG crowds? Isn't that what we DO? We create crowds and then try to get them to respond in predictable ways.

We humans have this strange propensity to respond to a given stimulus based on the feelings we were having in the past 5 minutes, before the current stimulus. ie: we miss the IMPORTANT point because we're thinking about something else instead of what's happening right now. Maybe that's what's going on in a few of the comments to this article. People are seizing upon one detail that reminds them of something different they don't like, to voice their displeasure about an entirely different topic. Such is life. Maybe I'm doing it now too. hehe

The guy dancing is about ANYTHING you believe in. It might be about making sure crowd mentality doesn't get out of control. Any one of us can use this incredibly entertaining discussion to feel good or feel not good. To me, it was an AHA moment that I can apply to my own career and business.

The crowd mentality by itself is not a bad thing. It's simply a facet of humanity. Many of the world's best inventions and processes were created through watching crowds and adapting them to where the masses were moving. Besides, everyone follows a crowd on some issues, and stands alone on others. There is no right or wrong about either choice, there is only what we are learning from it or NOT.

Crowd mentality is "cool" thing that happens, just like ant hills. It can be pointed towards something you like, or something you don't like. And what you like can change. Think of the crowd mentality as a newspaper, a cool band or Derek's blog. It's a source of information you can choose to assimilate or not.

Someone mentioned get the first follower on the payroll. I suggest making them a partner...

Steve

Personally, I like to make sure if I follow anyone there is a point. I went to the Atlanta Jazz Festival one year and it rain. Some people left and some people stay. I followed the second group,because there is no better way to listen to music except under a blue sky. My jeans were wet from the waist to the leg. I never forgot that experience.

I'm still very confused. I'm sure I've seen almost exactly the same article as this one before (months ago when the video was first posted to YouTube)... Is this kind of a repost or did I not read it here? :-\

I'm 99% sure that it's not a deja-vu thing, but that 1% drives me crazy.

FINALLY used the right keywords in Google! :-)

Found the original :-)
sive.rs/dance-lessons
Yeah I posted that one last summer, but when prepping my TED Talk version of it I realized I missed the most important point: that it's ALL about the first two followers. The shirtless guy had been dancing for 20 minutes. Nothing happened until one person joined in. — Derek

Thank you, Derek! You're a great mentor for me.

And when if the first follower doesn't show up? Maintain your leadership, no matter what. specially if you really believe in what you do.
Peace.

So interesting... I blogged about this video last summer and drew a similar lesson from it on leadership, but also product design and innovation. If you are on to something, just keep dancing.

http://danielstillman.wordpress.com/2009/06/22/crossing-the-chasm-keep-dancing/

Great leadership tips with this funny visual example.

thanks!

Hi Derek, I realised just by seeing te video, it just plain simple to be a leader, and just remember how to feel if you were the follower. and act upon it, how would you liked to be treated when you were your own follower. with attention, respect, carring.
live with the passion in you and share it. love Margje

I guess it's a joyful moment when you see a dancer, think it would be fun to do the same thing, and get up and do just that.

Thanks, man. I needed that.

Pure manipulation...
The guy is NOT creating anything, just he is the first dancer at a rock(?? etc) event. Its not him that the people are dancing for.
The images are good for an "illustration", the words are OK and right alone - putting these 2 together is mere bullshit.

After all the comments above mine, I now feel good and safe about telling you that I really enjoyed this. Good vision.

Awesome!!!

Thanks Derek. I would like to use the video at work but we can not view You Tube. Is it possible for you to send me a copy as an attachment to my work e-mail at haugen.brad@syncrude.com
OK. It's posted here now: sive.rs/stuff/DancingGuy.mp4 — Derek

Great idea, thanks.

Hi Derek. Very clever. If it was bible times you might be considered a prophet or the idea tsar. You probably wouldn't make the scriptures though. You're too easy to understand. Thank you for simple profoundness. (Is that a word?) Michelle

Brilliant post Derek. but I think it's just a dancing guy without your BRILLIANT insight! This is the first time to your blog. Now, off to find other coolstuff here!

Kevin Ward

A leader needs guts. It takes guts to bare your puny self in public. And yes Derek, he needs a few sincere and avid first followers, in any case, at least one for a start. Takes two to Tango, you see. Also it takes a crowd to follow you along in your foot steps and in your movements, even if unwittingly.But most importantly,
there got to be a steep inclination
and a quick-witted side-step to thwart any formidable obstacle, to roll yourself into an avalanche.

Thanks for this Derek.

Really awesome. When are you running for President? Or at least Senator? :).
I mean it.

Wow! so inspiring!!! I wish There would be more "first follorwers" in this world!

Inspiring and True! Now when I feel like DonQuixote fighting the windmills I will play this video clip! Thanks for sharing!

I am going to tweet it

This video makes me laugh out loud! But I wondered to myself.... why did it take the women so long to join in? Oh well, I'm just happy one of them finally stepped forward so the other ladies could follow.

Loved this!! Dancing, art, leadership.... all good stuff. And, now I'm ready to conquer the day.... and look for the lone nut out there! lol Who wants to join me??

It was amazing, there's a lot to say about that, not just about the guy, or the dancing, or the "movement" that he creates, but the simple thing that it showes to us, it's a lesson of unity, in this case it's a dance, but what if it happened every day in the day to day things, what if we look around and support the tiny gret causes, i'm from Argentina (that's why i write that bad) and the ununion is the worst of our problems. Man, this is great, may i use on my blog and write a note about it?

concept - good
thought provoking - maybe
will it start a "first follower" movement - nah

even the first follower quickly become just another face in the crowd.

Thank for you sharing this video.

Dancing man (Colin) cameos in the trailer for Sasquatch 2010.

http://www.sasquatchfestival.com/

David

To answer the question of first follower, I know some bands that have effectively recreated this effect at e.v.e.r.y. concert. They have a friend (or two) that goes to every show and acts as their #1 fan. It never fails to get a good portion of the crowd going. The band sets the example, their friend follows suit, and if that doesn't work, they have another friend to follow him -- the results are exponential from there, just like in the video above.

Wow, this video is incredible! The other thing is the guy who started the dance was just totally in his own element....he didn't seem to have any agenda besides having fun, which in and of itself is contagious!

Ravi

Very impressive. Now I know how Mr. Spock feels like when he says "Fascinating."

One of the main points here seems to be that the initial resonance is crucial. Then, the more people follow, the more others are attracted.

All expressed by this crazy video. Nice!

BTW: Trekkies: I know how you'll criticize my statement about Spock ;-)

Reminds me of the Kantor 4-play model: mover, follower, bystander and avoiders can all be seen.

A compelling video! What an awesome way to initiate a movement. This morning, after reviewing the comments, I was inspired to do exactly that.

Kimo actually showed this blog entry to us during our Applied Marketing class, and it was amazing! It really is an inspiring video, and makes me feel even better about how many times I've made a fool of myself for the sake of leadership. This video intensifies that message, and I feel like it's really something more people should pay attention to.

I can't help but wonder what the person who was taping was thinking in their head. Perhaps, "Wow, look at this idiot". Then after 2 minutes, the ones who looked like idiots were the ones that WEREN'T dancing!

Truly inspiring. I love it!

Hi, as i had no response I've took the freedom of download and translate the video, if you wish, you can see wat i´ve done here
http://javolox.blogspot.com/
I´ve named "Of sheeps and sheperds" or "De ovejas y pastores" in spanish. I hope you like it as well i hope you understand spanish.
One more thing, this is yours, please let me know if you want me to delete it.-

Hi! That was a quite inspirational video, Derek! I'm gonna follow it to friends who participate in social movements and social network studies!

To do so, I've transcripted and translated the video to Portuguese (Brazil). Here is the link: http://dotsub.com/view/79a06688-4aef-472f-a97c-8d4a736f934b

I hope it is ok to do so. Soon I am going to post it om my blog, so I thought it was better to check if it is ok with you.

Thank you in advance!
Sim. Obrigado! — Derek

I agree. Interesting way to see it. I always am an avid supporter and head encouragement giver, when I see someone with a dream--especially my kids and my nieces and nephews. I'm alway right on board. But I never realized what role I played. I just wanted to lift them up, and support and encourage. I also love to help a new business flourish, by gushing over their concept, and telling folks about this great new place--I like to give true and honest praise for an idea that I think has the potential to help or inspire. It is interesting ot see your point of view, although It was always my intention to help the other. Wow.

I am not surprised that you got a standing ovation at TED. You delivered a simple message in a manner that is simple to understand and the message is pertinent to us all.

Great job!

On second thoughts, how many followers would the lone nut have, were he to do a tight-rope-walk or a sheer-cliff-climb? This alone will decide whether his movement would turn out into an epoch or just peter out into a passing fad. But, thanks Derek, for an insightful and thought-provoking view of a common place event.

I so love this! It's simple, and yet beautiful, perhaps for its simplicity.

And it's a great way to break down leadership. Anyone can understand it this way. Anyone can participate this way. And yet, few will have the courage to do so...at least not until things have tipped so it's now "safe" to follow.

I agree with your main thesis very much: It's much easier to be a first leader than a first follower.

Glad to be following you now!

Wonderful,inspiring and funny, great work Derek !

Old news - Seth Godin did a bit on this forever ago -
I originally posted this on June">sive.rs/dance-lessons">June 6 2009, then Seth posted his take on June 10, 2009. Seth is a friend and even gave me tips on this talk at the TED Conference. — Derek

Inspiring yes.
But also frightning.

It looks like all it takes to start a movement is a nut and a great follower. History shows where that can lead to.

So if the nut has nutty ideas, keep using your brains and don't let your heart or the first follower take over.

But if you really think the nut is a genius and adds value to the world, then by all means, follow the nut, your heart, brain and follower.

brdi

Anyone know the name of the band?
Song is Unstoppable by Santigold — Derek

Yay! I saw this video yesterday on the music connection website and googled it today to see if I could find the embed code to send it to my friends:)

I've heard you speak at a bunch of conventions and always appreciate your positive and original point of view. Thanks for your post and your thoughts!

great pitch and strong delivery.

Amazing Video and Nice Observation. Altogether a great eye opener for me!

This is great! Very inspiring - and fun! It was shown at a seminar I attended yesterday, and I just posted it on my (German) website with a translation of your transcript. Hope that's ok! (if not, please let me know).

this is just amazing

Great interpretation of an otherwise typical video. My question is: how come we judge someone who pursues his passion and in the process becomes authentic as a "lone nut?" It seems that humans are so defined, limited and driven by conventions - always going and staying on the path that has been carved nicely by others.

Hurray to the "pionners" and "trailblazers" (read "lone nut"). They are the ones that expand our human experience.

Nice post, Derek!

Very effective. I am championing a Goal Plan Team on Leadership Excellence for my company and will use this video as an introduction to what it might look and feel like when we hit a tipping point.

Thanks for sharing the clip.

Very observant...get it? Ob...servant. Especially love how as the movement grows the ones that are left sitting down become the ones that look silly. Translates so well to every walk of life and field of business.

i applauded and shouted. amazing.

Here is an important thing to note. The same is unfortunately true of behaviors that go terribly wrong. It's how Group think and Mob mentality are formed. Watch this video of the horrible riot that broke out at JMU. The precise moment when Students started throwing Bottles at the Police, which led to tear gas being dispersed. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJJNTLwGLFo
The pivotal person, in the same sense, who turned one person throwing bottles into a mob of people throwing bottles, was the second person, as you say.

But what might have happened if the second person who stood up, was the one who DISCOURAGED the first one from continuing to throw bottles? Might more have followed suit if another brave soul echoed the brave one's desire to keep it from turning into a riot?

It is interesting how the photographers are marveling at how ridiculous the situation is, but no one is standing up to stop the bottle throwers.

You are so right. The second person can either join in, and make the behavior alright, or he can admonish it, and try to sway the first guy's behavior. In this case it could have been the difference between what ended up being a riot, and a festival that was kept under control.

Bonjour,

Je viens de découvrir votre vidéo et je la trouve vraiment très pédagogique et motivante ! Elle devrait être diffusée dans les cours de management.

Je vais la faire partager à mes lecteurs.

Bonne journée !

Three weeks ago I used this video in my 7th Grade Leadership Class. It really proved the point.

Great talk, great analyse. How did you get the footage?
Thanks. It was bouncing around YouTube last summer. — Derek

This 3 minute video and your commentary is changing my life and my church! HOORAY! a true gem!

Fantastic! Every leader who has ever been seen as a lone nut can attest to the importance of the first follower - not just for the sake of getting other followers, but for the well-being of the leader. Who knows when the original leaders stamina would have run out if the first follower hadn't come along to support his actions? Beautifully put together.

You must be American.

Brilliant thought provoking piece! The YouTube link was passed to me via a fellow firefighter and now is getting shared with others. You have started a movement!

Echt klasse ! Vielen Dank !

Wow.

Really great lesson to learn. Thanks Derek.

Incredible. Thanks, that was amazing. Posted on my site already. Much love, S.

Hi
alguien me mostro este video de tu trabajo a aprtir de hay, empece a ver mas de lo que haz hecho y sobre todo de lo que haces en este sitio, y se parece un poco a lo que quiero hacer con los musicos de mi pais, siguiendo a un lider hoy quiero seguirte y aprender de lo que haz hecho. espero aprender mas y mas de lo que haces y repetirlo mil y una veces, un saludo y gracias

Wow.. this is awesome. The idea and the way you describe it. Thank for this inspiring sharing. I want to share it in my site.
=)

wow! thanks a lot!

No matter what your industry, this is a great way to make your point, love the humor!

Just the best TedTalk ever! So accessible for everyone, so clever to take that clip and make it into an example. Go Sivers!

Dance and music is the most unique form of art. A perfect artistic nonverbal communication with movement of the body in a graceful, rhythmical and lyrical way. Pleasing to the eye physical gestures can speak louder than words. Derek you chose the very right video to make us understand your philosophy and perspective about leading and flow cause it’s a fact that There is no movement without the first follower. Hats off!

The "lone nut" leader is essential. You simply cannot have the first follower without the leader, ballsy enough to take the first step. The follower will never has the guts to take the initiative to begin anything. He's just following. -Fred a.k.a "Lone Nut"

I am directing my improv classes to watch this - critical stuff for group improv! Thank you!

Very cool post. This guy does something similar on a different scale, take a look at the video here: http://www.wherethehellismatt.com/

Having built many businesses over the years I can tell you its all about the first customer, embracing that customer and letting others see the customer/supplier play out for others to see and JOIN...

No lessons here... but its true. Leadership is all about nurturing that first follower or two. (or customer).

Great video... Notice also that when the first follower becomes uninspired by the leader the crowd stops following... The dance ends..

But also notice that we as onlookers like to capture the story of leadership and tell others about it over and over and over again...

Thus the numbers of views this video is getting on YouTube.

Great video, Great Observations.

Cheers,

Rob

simple yet incredible.

Thanx

Hi Derek,

Great text with the video. Really well done.

I am currently in China where there are some leaders but nobody dares to follow. I will have the vid subtitled in Chinese and put your name with it as the source of the text.

just loved this it was the answer to what i am about ! i'm the lone nutter dansing arround but now i know just how to act with the people in my team!
Thanks again Derek.
Cath

I understand now the importance of the community building around an idea - that it is crossing the line between "mystic" and demystify it in building the collegial relationship with the follower - and consequent followers. Fantastic insight - thank you.

Die Genialität des Trivialen!
Ich wünsche mir mehr solcher Paradigmenwechsel.

OK, this just looks like a bunch of stoners at a concert. Stoners always bunch together, there's no leadership here. Just too much pot.

Hi Derek... really great commentary. As an entrepreneur who's survived the first 2 years of startup, I can relate to the dancing nut. :-) Having those first followers is DEFINITELY what it's all about. I'll be adding your blog to our blog roll, if that's o.k. with you.

I've been that guy dancing before and the exact same thing happened!

According to my research, the use of drug and guns guarantees MORE followers.

In other news, we see this kind of behavior at gigs all the time, it takes two couples to get the ball rolling then the dancing can go all night.

I've never really thought about the first follower before but now you have said it I can't believe I didn't notice it before! The first follower is the guy that makes the difference.

Wow. Very nice. Gonna have to digest the comments now!

-kpaul

Ser lider es tan solo ser capaz de que te sigan personas. Creo que es un concepto sobrevalorado. Lideres eran Adolf Hitler y Joseph Stalin.

Lo importante es ser lider y crear valor. Ese si que es un punto fundamental.

No obstante, muy buen artículo.

Leadership means nothing. It only requires followers. Even adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin were leaders.

Leadership providing value and creating a memorable legacy is the ultimate goal.

i agree...just see the need and take a lead

Very interesting perspective on leadership. Simplicity is genius!

Wunderbar, wirklich inspirierend! Vielen Dank :o)

Excellent speech and yes inspiring to notice that the first follower has to share the vision of the "nut" and as mentioned earlier will provide confidence to the "nut" that their idea is actually good

Derek, I have shared this a thousand times on Facebook and now that I started my blog I am going to dedicate a whole post to it!

You rock dude!

-Dan

What is the role of the leader once s/he has many followers? The energy of the herd needs to be directed...

like i said derek, i wrote a blog post!!

check it out!

http://danfonseca.wordpress.com/2010/09/09/leadership-dancing-and-starting-a-movement/

Dear Derek,

Pure genius!!!!!!.

I'm using your video to prod some

reluctant ex-high school classmates

to get, get this, their very 1st

email account. . . . . . . .

Great job! This is what leadership is all about. One can't be a leader without people who are willing to follow. Great footage of human nature in the works - perfect!

I'm writing a bit of a paper on your talk, Derek. Thanks for making it fun!

This is a master piece on leadership i love it. Thanks for inspiring me great

Sensacional!!
Tão simples e prático que pode ser aplicado em qualquer situação.
Abs!

Thanks for posting this. I have to remember this analogy from time to time.

Ser líder es ser atrevido, creativo y creer que lo que quieres se puede hacer.

Estoy de acuerdo con la vital importancia del primer seguidor, es él quien transforma el líder en líder.

Muy buen artículo.

I feel like that guy. I have always known that it was in the team and not so much as the leader.

Without the team or followers it's going nowhere.

Derek--you forgot one of the best parts...The name of the song is UNSTOPPABLE (by Santogold) thus becoming, perhaps, even more inspiring? :)

P.S. HI!

Creo que son los seguidores los que influyen en el líder. Son ellos los que buscan un líder y le moldean a su gusto.

Creo firmemente en el peso de los seguidores. En un equipo son los seguidores los que empujan al líder y no al revés. Es como un rebaño de ovejas: la que va primera avanza porque la empujan las demás y la última avanza porque cree que la primera guía.

Todos tenemos los líderes que nos merecemos. El mérito o demérito recae en los seguidores.

Cada vez que oigo algo sobre el éxito de un líder no puedo evitar recordar el mérito de los seguidores.

http://alex-elusodesimismo.blogspot.com/search/label/Liderazgo

Me gusto ese punto de vista,creo que el Lider siempre esta expuesto al ridiculo,por eso una de las virtudes de un lider es la :Imperturbabilidad,y el Perseverar.

Такой смешной чувак и все так сразу кинулись за ним танцевать) Интересно, это не шутка?
Не шутка. — Derek

klasse vortrag!!!!!!!!

The insight is simple... just needed someone to point it out to me.
Great principle, loved it! :)

This in one of my favorite videos.
Thanks for "the first follower transformers a lone nut into a leader."

This is so awesome :)

Yes, if only joy, it is true.If we are not giving any chance to survive or even to have the daily life costs, no one will be in.I am wrong?

It oftentimes takes more courage to be the first follower than it does to be the leader. And he generally takes a lot of risk yet none of the glory.

OMG! I love this video and transcript. I have always been the dancing nut. My parents taught me to say, "thank you" when people told me I was weird. At age 43 now I am so happy they did. I started my own music booking agency last year after losing my teaching job. Many said I was crazy but things are going great. This video just reminds me of how important it is to follow our path and others will follow, too. I always embrace my artists and venues as equals (also how I was raised). Again, thank you parents and thank you Derek Sivers.
Peace,
TR aka Tanya Renee
CEO and founder, Spirit Vibrations

Just LOVE this! Truth in action!
Gave my laptop an ovation.

Incredible message.. my only thought is this: How do we apply it to life? We want to be leaders but I guess occasionally we will have some sort of opportunity to be that first follower.. although I'd hopefully always be the one inspiring confidence in the that brave soul. :)

Volevo solo dire che ho trovato questo post fantastico.

Hai individuato il processo con chiarezza.

Wow! Great post. Makes a lot of sense.. :-)

very inspiring!
Thanks.

Great video & Great comments Derek!

You say '1st follower' is the key. But I thought he was the real leader, he took efforts (waving) to motivate others to join. Original dancing guy just had the simple idea, he didn't care whether others joined or not..he was just having fun. So the real leader (1st follower) should get the credit for making it the movement.

But, on the other hand, in your remarks to comment#245, you have said the dancing guy was dancing for 20 minutes alone! That makes me think again! That's a lot of guts and patience..and the commitment to go on!! If the Tom didn't join 1st, Dick would have joined or Harry would have. It was only a matter of time! And as you rightly say, he welcomed & made the '1st follower' 'equal partner' & rest, as they say, was...:) So, considering this, I would say it is NOT ALL about the 1st followers, but also quite a lot about the original dancing guy himself!!!

I love this insightful interpretation of leadership roles in this video. Will be using as a blog article soon and certainly will give you due credit.

Das ist SUPER - da bin ich gerne Anhänger ;-)

I always come back to this post Derek! The video, your breakdown of what's happening, and the overall power of it continues to inspire.
Thanks!
-Mitesh

очень хочу такое же попробовать, мне кажется первых 3 человек я смогу собрать. Интересно, где бы лучше начать? на концерте музыкальной группы? на центральной площади столицы?
мы живем в Киеве, Украина

danke für diese tolle und einfache Erklärung. Da ist viel Wahres drin. Einfach super!!!!!

Can't believe I didn't comment on this before. You inspire me, Derek. I sent the URL for this page to a friend today. I asked them to dance with me.

I agree with the follow.
I am a bit of a leader but the problem is no one has the guts to follow when disappoints me but does not deter me.

If I was a seagull. I'd fly loops

Where does the music in the video come from?

G

Great lesson, and like the dancer being highlighted, it's also quite a bit of fun. Nice way to look at something in a whole new light. Thanks, Derek!

Лидером чудака делают его первые последователи. Иначеон остается очередным чудаком.

"The first follower transforms a lone nut into a leader" Well said here.

While the ease of getting others to follow might be frightening in a different context, in this video it served an excellent purpose of simple fun. It caused a group of people who were seemingly disengaged in their surroundings to fully experience the moment and caused a spark of excitement that lit up the rest of the day, and maybe even lasted longer for some. Excellent display of boldness.

Der Film zeigt uns deutlich auf, trau Dich einfach, habe keine Hemmungen super übertragbar auch aufs Network.

lg Aloefons

Très très très bonne vidéo, la meilleur vidéo que j'ai vu sur la leadership. C'est vrais que le premier suiveur est le déclin.

woooooooow....i have learnt mant things and thx ....and by the way the vedio was truly amazing....ha ha that shows leadership

Bastante inspirador, la mayoría prefiere ser seguidor y no líder porque prefieren las cosas seguras, no arriesgarse, pero son los líderes los que logran grandes cosas.

Thanks Derek. I just discovered your blog and find your writing to be both witty and profound. Now, this is the coolest video I've seen in a long time!! So true!!

I really love the posts on your blog. They are so insightful and hold a lot of wisdom.

Amazingly inspiring. I can't believe I just came across you, your story, and this blog. I've used cd baby in the past, just never knew it was you I was buying from! Anyway, loved your insight in this video...just awesome.

This is my favourite lesson ever. I've been carrying this idea around with me ever since I first saw your video a few months ago.

You bring up something no one else talks about which is a genius observation. And that my friend is also leadership!
cheers,
Michael

Thanks for inspiring and reminding that the leader may not be always the "obvious" one who are on the first one on front line, but could be the first one who take risk to follow.

What a great post. The leader is really over-glorified sometimes. Glad you've given credit to the underrated people who make sucessful movements possible. Cheers and keep up the great posts.

I think all leader need a second men as important as leader role. good example

Great job u done Derek.I like that both the sides of you are involved in your observations.

Am I the only one here who thinks this video is of a bunch of people doing a - nonetheless brilliant - flash mob??

probably inspired on Oprah's flash mob she got for her anniversary

We've been tricked!

Over four hundred replies and no one comments on what Scott Andrew uncovered in comment #92.

That guy danced alone for a very long time. And there was a small following before that large one. A four or five people danced together with him, but after a few minutes they all moved on and he was again dancing alone.

That's why my take on this is different than the Derek's premise. The third guy is not as important. The most important thing of all is persistence and pure resilience of the one person that starts the movement.

If you look at other crazy blazing follow ups in the entertaiment sector you don't have to look further than at The Beattles and Abba.

The Beattles were playing for years without success. Then they got through and their first record was released, where they were singing songs which later were acclaimed as revolutionary. Nothing much happend. A year has passed, they released second plate which caused prodigious tsunami of acclaim and practically histeria.

The Abba was similar. They got through and won European "Eurovision" song contest. A year has passed again without much of an echo. Then they released a plate and all hell broke loose.

What I point at is some underlying scheme which is visible at all three examples:

Someone is doing something original. After a while they gain some popularity which soon passes away, but they still persistently do it again and again, regardless of external fluctuations. And suddenly, unexpectedly for anyone they gain a huge follow movement - suddenly everyone likes them or wants to be like them.

To sum my rant: third follower is not important. Important is the dogged persistence of the movement leader in doing whatever he's doing.

This is a brilliant evaluation of a leadership. Well done! At the core of it was someone giving other people "permission" to have child-like fun.

When my son was in a band... I told him to get "them" dancing and the rest will come.

I love to dance...

This video is brilliant!

That video has been around a long time. Still makes a valid point about leadership and followership.

Gotta love them all!

Brilliant but simple!

This is sooo cool!!! Totally sharing!!!!

Awesome thoughts. What I notice is that in the end we can't even see the leader or the first follower anymore. Just the movement. As you say it is all about the movement not the leader even in the beginning. Very helpful for me to remember. Thanks.
Brilliant observation! You're right! Thanks for adding that. — Derek

I wonder if this guy wanted to be a leader? I wonder if he wanted to start a movement?

Maybe he just wanted to dance and didn't really care what anyone thought. Often leaders seem to me to not so much succeed in leading, as that they fail at not being followed.

This is awesome. Best explanation of this video I've seen

This is really what I am experimenting at my new role... Is awesome!

ugh. love this. love even more that the movement was started during a santogold song. thanks, derek.

Derek, You have taken this viral video and given it ample meaning in the world of leadership. It is very precise in how you detail that the "first follower"certainly justifies "the lone nut" and his/her actions. It is amazing how simplified this teaching becomes when you analyze the video. Watching it the first time was distracting, but after careful observation, and joining the v.o. with the images, it was so very truthful. It was as if the many lessons learned through hard knocks unfolded in a fluid three plus minutes without pain. Examples of followers are truly the stronger message than leadership being a solo endeavor.

It was very interesting to note that as the crowd became larger, the leader disappeared, and the only activity you could see was the fringes of the crowd. Great job. ~ Max Terronez, President, Zootela Hawaii Facebook, Zootela

Awesome. Thanks for sharing Derek, I am dancing naked right now!

I have watched this video a couple of times since first seeing it a few months ago. It resonates with me as I have often been the first person dancing, and loved the feeling of others soon joining in. Thanks for showing me how this relates to starting something new, as I start my new business.

This is absolutely incredibly transcripted!

I am going to share this with EVERYONE that I know! ;)

Thanks for an inspirational start to my Monday!!!

Reminds me of the Gen. George S. Patton quote:

"We herd sheep, we drive cattle, we lead people. Lead me, follow me, or get out of my way."

All 3 are in evidence - a leader, followers, and those getting out of the way. All three are needed to really create a movement.

awesome!!! thank you for sharing!!! hope you have been doing well!

I am really and honestly inspired. A full dose of energy for my world of works. Thanks Derek.

Very interesting. And I think very true. Good, really good point. Thanks for share! :) Greetings!

Que increible video y la manera en que lo interpretas tambien es genial felicitaciones! Lo unico que se requiere para crear un movimiento es perder la verguenza para hacerlo.

I think all a leader needs is respect, likeability and vision.

The best part about something like this is that the first dancing kid doesn't even care if others follow. He just does what he loves, and others realize its a great idea. I think something can be gleaned from that....do what you love, and perhaps, it might be the only thing you end up having to do for the rest of your life.

do you think this applies to pensioners as well?

So what happens if that first follower doesn't get up? Or the second or third? You kind of know you're stuffed.

Hi Derek, I just finished reading your new book "Anything You Want" and absolutely loved it!

I first came across this Video on Seth blog and since then have shared it with my friends and colleagues. Not only it's a great example of how a tribe starts but what can happen if one person starts doing (i.e. starting that project) that others can get inspired and overcome the fear of failure and judgement.

Great discussion!!!!!! I learned one things, if I am a leader I have to embrace my followers!!!! I haven't done that well enough!!!! Thank you!!! I focus on being a leader more than on embracing my followers. This is my mistake. I can fix it now!!!
Regards,
Veronika

Derek, read your book, "Anything you want." Great Stuff!!!!! Thank you :-)

I agree with your views here. I have demonstrated "leadership experience". But in my resume, I have written prominently that I value my followership skills over leadership. I am a reluctant leader really, but can be an enthusiastic follower. Good followership is much more important than good leadership. Good leader + good followers = blinding success. Think Mahatma Gandhi + 400 million Indians.

It makes me wanna try something that i never done before in my life yet.

Nice Video.. going to replog this with your credits...

This is exactly whats happening on Wall St!
One lone nut, the first follower, and momentum. Huge!

FUCK! (excuse the profanity... or not if you wish) No wonder you got an ovation. I have never seen such a graphic demonstration of what leadership means. AwESoMe!!! Many more lessons to learn from this, but I am sharing it. Thanks.

We share this with thanks

Wonderful demonstration of leadership.

http://www.4yourkitchen.co.uk/cookware-judge-cookware-judge-saucepans.irc

Wow, this is outstanding. I'm honestly speachless. I just sent out a few emails to some of my first followers thanking them & offering some benefits (guest blogging on my blog), so I want you to know I put this into play IMMEDIATELY. Thanks Derek!!!

That lesson is great, but only up to a point. Potentially, this is classic short-termism, one of our greatest current problems. Note that the 'lone nut' is now swamped, and invisible to most followers. What happens next is crucial - is there sustainability? Does the movement go some place; fracture into factions; trip up and fall down the hill; stampede; or just collapse exhausted then dissipate? Is the 'lone nut' still leading, or is he forgotten? (which is not to say a catalyst isn't important, but is different from a leader). The real test of the 'lone nut's' leadership is whether he now takes the group off on a mission, or just wears them out on the spot after a few exhilarating minutes.

I think that's a great example of leadership and
and follower,but of course you need have the
fun spirit and some dancing skill.

So what happens if that first follower doesn't get up? Or the second or third? You kind of know you're stuffed.

interesting. It also shows how much people need to get up and move their bodies. A very healthy and soulful expression in itself.

This is original :)

haha love it! very cool insight to an action.

Crazy how after a point everyone just scrambles to do the same...

I absolutely love this video. What I have learned from this video is if you want to be a leader, you have to be enthusiastic and confident in what you do.

When I think of leadership. I always recall this Dancing Guy story you did in TED :)

Find your first follower, or outdo your first leader and take his role - big thanks for a great video!

Wow! Thats really amazing - looks like a live World of Mouth campaign... the type of dancing reminds me at matt dancing around the world :)

http://www.wherethehellismatt.com/

Thank you for the video. I did indeed learn from it. I should be more confident. I should start stand up for my ideas and plans.

I'll go look for my first follower. ;)

do u have it with subtitles?
Not yet, no. — Derek

Great video and such a good example of what you're saying. I recently watched your Uncommon Sense series of videos as well and they're pretty impressive as well.

Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts about followers and leadership. I hope I already was a useful follower for someone. And I hope I will get followers myself for something cool somtime.

It scares me how easily people will follow. I don't think you would like to get those kins of followers. My goal is to be inspiring not to get followers.

Only tangentially relevant, but the Dancing Guy reminds me of this scene:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2I1jwH5c7w

from the movie Shaolin Soccer (2001)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0286112/
Brilliant! I had forgotten that scene! Thanks for posting that link. — Derek

I love this post! I was always considered the lone nutcase... i still am since i have not one follower! hahahahahaha... But this gives me hope... sigh.....

Thanks Derek. Nice New Years present.

Amazing video with great effort, loved the idea of leadership. One guy really motivated everyone there....:p

Loved this video! Very entertaining and informative at the same time. One man dared, one man followed and inspired others to follow as well! Replay!

Hey, thanks for the wonderful video, there is a lot to learn from it and its been one of the most inspiring video i have ever seen :)

Hi Derek,
you're so right. Thank you for this perfect insight. The big lesson for me - to tribute both:
the leader AND the first follower. Both have the nuts and they start the power. Same happens in real life.
If you aren't outrageous and do YOUR way, nobody will follow.
If you don't take the risk to follow a fool, everybody will keep on sleeping.
So lets stand up and celebrate our own way of life :)

What a powerful visual, it really stays with you as does the message. The key is the courage of both the leader and the first follower. The leader reinforces the actions of the first follower (and reinforces his decision) and both do the same for the third. Suddenly its a movement. The best part is the voice at the end that asks.. how did he do that?

Great Video. it shows that sometimes you are not alone when it comes to dancing to your own drum. Because there are others who can relate to your beat.

Great write up....

The message is unique..... Everything starts from the roots, A gut of becoming first follower can turn someday into a leader.... great post... thanks Darek!!

It takes guts to be a first follower, sure, but first it takes guts to step out of the crowd and start dancing alone... or follow different roads...

I've always thought of myself as a lone nut. :) Glad to know that could be leadership material in someone else's eyes.

I love that if no one joins him, he's crazy. Once the first person agrees to follow him he's on to something. Then when the mob joins in, he's a visionary!

Sometimes we need to remember that we just need a few people to get up with us :)
Well-put! — Derek

2nd follower is a pivot point that begins momentum. Awesome. Great and simple points.

My *boss* sent me the TedTalk link. I asked him: are you the lone nut or the follower to emulate? Thanks for a fantastic, simple, and powerful video. My students LOVE it!

Nice idea in theory but If I try this at my local park I think will either be beaten or arrested such is the mentality of the local people. Wish me luck!

A great lesson in leadership and in positive movement building.

man ... many pay big money to achieve this effect. Simply fantastic

Wow,

The video reminded me of when I attempted to open my first small business. Actually, before I attempted to open my business, I was turn down employment at the local Wal-Mart. And I told them that I would be back to clean up the place. I opened a small offcie cleaning service all alone, I presented my business plan to quite a few local businesses and they didn't consider it in the beginning, but after I got my foot in the door of one small shop and just cleaning the windows of the shop brought many many more customers requesting services after they ran into the glass windows thinking that they wasn't there. 6 months later I was totally overwhelmed and had to hire addidtional employees to meet the demands. When you go above and beyond the call, people notice. I did receive a call from Wal-Mart requesting an estimate. I was receiveing calls from companies for estimates before they even broke gorund to build, that was awesome.

Wow! That is how real leadership looks like!
A must-watch leadership-video!
It's very inspirational! Thank you! :)

I like it!I've not seen this video before,i think it is really interesting and powerful, but i can't down load the video,i want to share it on my google plus.

That video is amazing, and a true insight into what leadership is all about.

What a truly inspiring video! The truth, manifested, speaks for itself. Nothing like embracing, recognizing, relating, registering and implanting the vision of global fellowship. It's all about sharing what works for you, then, others. Love, like, excitment in innovation, spreads like wildfire!

Great Video Derek. Really appreciate you for recognizing and narrating this scene and making it a tool for leadership learning....Thanks for sharing

So typically American, make a whole theory of leadership out of something so simple - first up on the dance floor. rather than transformational leadership, perhaps we could call this hip-hop leadership?

As a leader who has been groomed by leaders, and who has groomed younger leaders, both in military and civilian roles, I hope this video has the same appeal to others that it has to me. It. Is. Excellent.

Be easy to follow,really?
Dancing is a gift.i think it's difficult.

It's all about confidence and passion, but you can't fake it, it has to be genuine. People are drawn to those with passion, and will join them even if they are not traditional leaders.

Nice post I think in the end of the day if you are willing to go the extra mile and do something crazy you can do it, just similar with how this guy has gone wild at the dance party =)

Wow...Just under 3 minutes u explained how to become a leader...Atleast now I got a chance to watch this video...Inspiring.

This video is amazing. And the text as well...

This has really changed my view of leadership.

funny video, oh MAN,
but the brotha had his entourage right behind him!
It was fixed. It was RIGGED.

could be way funnier with a few re-writes
and a better narration by someone very British and stuffy sounding...(a little more post production)
Peter O'Toole would most ideal if at all possible.

but I LOVE it.
thanks.

you have to laugh at that one, no choice.
and you HAVE to join in right?
ie:come on honey, lets go join in, we HAVE to right?
ie:ok, hold on, let me just get my purse packed, one sec.
ie:ok,hun, but we're JOININ that huddle! come on!
ie:one sec babe, ok, let me just grab these cold ones here
ie: now yer talking, come on babe! time to GO, don't you see there's a HUDDLE going on over there, lets GO!

could this somehow appeal to the football fans?
as well as the primal urges of
drawn to the HUDDLE like a swarm of electrons
to a PROTON?
Could that huddle be the socio-PROTON and the followers the charge of ELECTRONS?

no leader, only proton

maybe compare and contrast with some overlay graphs
in video post and charts documenting the ant community
or a herd of rhino, penguins, or wildebeast
a nice contrast with other species could be funny
showing THEIR proton forming

for the footage:
start introducing aliens, who join in
with some cool cgi
and various animals could wander up also with cgi
maybe a dinosaur pops by and nearly fills the screen and wanders off out of view

have tupac walk up and join in

Thanks for this. It's the 'I'm Spartacus' moment, isn't it...it's the seond guy who really sets the ball rolling

I saw your TED talk a while ago and loved it. It definitely takes balls to start stuff or to be one of the first followers.

Also interesting that when a movement gets more popular (and everyone starts dancing) all of a sudden it takes balls to NOT join in.

This is my favorite video on leadership

Derek, I am greatful of your thoughtfulness sendind me these. You are corageous in your life and that's why you have lots to share. Wonderful insides are given to those who share... Good memories of our 20 y.o. friendship! Cheers!!!

Derek, this is a totally different way at looking at being a leader.

thank you so much for sharing this video. until now, i still thinking that if i was in that situtation, what should i do? to follow and dance? or just be an audience?
actually, as far as i am concrened that the first people who gonna be a follower after so called leader must take the highest risk. firstly, he will not be able to imagine wether anybody will come and follow or not, and then he also need to burden about other people's evalution. what's more, for the second follower, he might change his position from follower to leader.
from this video, i'd like to speak highly of the first follower, even the second or the third, because to follow, they need couragement. they persuade themselves and did it instead of only watching. and i believed that they experience totoally different moment. probably, dancing is a quite normal activity, so it could be completed easily to attract follower but how about other activities? i'v no idea ~
anyway, no matter leader or first follower or just an participant, do things you want to do, and realize why you do it is the most important point in my opinion.

Great learning video...thanks....btw...does anyone know where this was filmed?
Sasquatch Music Festival in Washington State, 2009 — Derek

@ karen

The venue is The Gorge Amphitheatre (George, WA)

It's one of the most beautiful places to watch a concert ;)

Derek, a big thank you for making your video available to me. I started a movement and now have about 20 followers. Your video is encouraging to me ... I know more will follow real soon.

Your little video, with your thought-provoking narrative, has been the spark for a revolution or two in my company, and a couple of epic statements, now written on blackboard walls in our scrappy, happy and poor HQ.

- never mistake movement for momentum
- I'd give you the shirt off my back if you'd just follow me

So, what's next? Would love to see you deconstruct motivation. It's time.
That's Daniel Pink's specialty. See this video. — Derek

Brilliant. My favourite parts (sorry if i quote wrong) "once more people join, then it is less risky for those sitting on the fence to join. if they dont act quickly they will be left behind and not part of the cool crowd"
Im just facinated with human behaviour!
Yolanda
Yolanda and the Stolen Boys

Follow the lone-nut! Great advice. I'm going to go out and see what kind of crazy people I can follow today!

What a powerful message. I am inspired to show this to youth groups on teen dating violence prevention work.

Brilliant post and excellent commentary brought back an early memory.

I was caned by my headmaster for a similar stunt in music class (aged 11). No-one followed me when I got up and danced to the classical music that was playing (although I was only up for less than a minute) and I was accused of "showing off" by the headmaster who happened to be passing by and peeked in to the classroom. Showing off is frowned upon in conservative England (don't tell the Essex crowd). I didn't even know what showing off meant and all I could say was "the music made me do it". Many years later I am still scarred by that experience although I know now that I was only demonstrating leadership behaviour and reinforcing my core values (of which I was completely unaware at the time).

Dancing Guy exhibits the following core values - I'm sure there are many more but here's a few for starters...

1. Belief (in oneself)
2. Courage (to face adversity with quiet confidence)
3. Empathy (although that one took a bit of time until follower #1 joined in)
4. Execution (to get things done through a bias for action)
5. Leadership (leading by example)
6. Passion (driving force that generates energy)
7. Peripheral Vision (sees the immediate task and the big picture)
8. Reach (ability to see beyond the ordinary field of view and ambition)
9. Respect (accept differences and see unique qualities of each person)
10. Teamwork (together we are stronger)
11. Tenacity or Persistence (to stay the course/keep trying)
12. Trustworthiness (earn the trust and respect of others)

Unfortunately I can't add Excellence (to take pride in doing things really well). After all he really was a baaaaaaaad dancer.

#SalesXpert

Dear Derek, you just said it well.

Firstly I saw the video without sound. I enjoyed the dancing guys and next followers. I never I did not know what your post will be, I thought it is going to be funny while watching the video. Then I read down and left dazed by the great way you wrote it. I admit that as I watched the video never came to my mind.
:)

Just watched the Ted talk and laughed my butt off. What a simple and entertaining way to present such a complex topic. Cheers!

One of my favorite Ted talks, short, funny and meaningful. I also loved the Ted talk you did about differences around the world.

awwwwwsome!!!!!!!!!!

Saw this yesterday at a massive teachers conference and it was the highlight! Awesome!

great way to simplify something seems very complicated

There is something like this every Sunday in Siesta Key, it is a large beach full of people just dancing and playing music with no real rhyme or reason, it has reached cult status with all the visitors. It started off very small and has become huge.

This is one of the best leadership videos I've ever seen. Saw it on Ted and loved it!

Pretty good and funny at the same time. Nice job dissecting

Great stuff - who'd have thought that you'd learn so many lessons from a set of events such as that.

Many people would look at it and see nothing more than a group of pilled up ravers.

Leadership lessons, yes, but it also brings to mind the lines from a song ...

"Follow the leader
but what if the leader
has a gun ... "

http://www.6lyrics.com/battle_is_over_but_the_war_goes_on-lyrics-levon_helm.aspx

In some cases, we all might hope that no one does follow ... nice lesson, in any case, about a life process.

All the best

Thx

Derek -

Thanks again for your entertaining TED Talk and this video! I've used this Dancing Guy example in several of my classes to enhance the discussion of both leadership and followership.

By the way, isn't it funny that none of the spelling checkers on any of my devices recognize the word, "followership"? It is amazing to me that this word hasn't made it into the common lexicon yet.

Onward!

Guy
(NOT the Dancing Guy!)

Hey Derek,

Just wanted to say how much I LOVED this. What a great thought.

I wrote a little thing about it on my blog talking about it from a musician's perspective. Love your blog and I just bought and enjoyed your book as audio. Great stuff!

http://www.mattshadetek.com/site/blog/the-first-follower-theory/

Hey Derek,

I found your site after seeing this TED presentation, I made my whole team watch it.

We're going to try and take your philosophies (in regards to the importance of the 1st/2nd follower) and apply them to our future campaigns.

Thanks,

David

Really appreceated - simple yet deep thought as what is a leader if he has no followers :D digitalkamera could be better but that's just me though ;)

Wow. Very nice. This is one of my favorite videos. realy a master piece on leadership

I love this video and the commentry, brilliant

Haha that is really excellent, thank you, I want what he was smoking!

Very brave of the first guy to get up I must say, I wouldnt have

Hahaha love it, true leadership

lolol very brave indeed! You must be a leader if you want to expand your boundaries though! I know what that guy is feeling!

Hi Derek,

I saw your TED talk in a marketing seminar at work this week, I absolutely love the theory.

As ever, the difficult part is taking something like this and applying it to the real world. We're putting the analogy against our efforts to develop a community around our social media accounts, and there are times we feel like we've been dancing on that hill for days without our first real follower.

At least we know that when they arrive, they should be cherished!

Love this... and all my first followers!! I'm the shirtless nut and love it when people let go of their inhibitions and celebrate life! Let me lead you to your better brand by being true to your own personal shirtless dancer.

I've been doing leadership training and seminars to. We did the same in our training, But were just 16-23 years old there.

Wow! I am a 5th year medical student at University of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape of South Africa. A guest lecturer gave us a talk on community interaction and leadership, and ended her talk with your video. Absolutely amazing. I have been involved in leadership since primary school, and have never seen it explained so well or from that specific point of view. I would love to know whether or not this was a spontaneous funny video meant for youtube or if the shirtless dancing guy and his friends were in on the whole thing trying to prove a point? I have shown it to my mom and cant stop sharing it with others - I get goosebumps every time! Well done on such a great job!

This video has been my favorite ever since I first saw it.
There is no movement without the first follower.

I love it. Thanks for sharing Derek

~Donna Allen

Wow! I am a 5th year medical student at University of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape of South Africa. A guest lecturer gave us a talk on community interaction and leadership, and ended her talk with your video. Absolutely amazing.

We're told we all need to be leaders, but that would be really ineffective.
The best way to make a movement, if you really care, is to courageously follow and show others how to follow.
Couldn't have said it better myself. — Derek

There is no movement without the first follower.
We're told we all need to be leaders, but that would be really ineffective.

THANKS for sharing, Derek.
This is what makes you so different than most, who endeavour to hang on to what they see as their 'power' over others by keeping quiet!
Keep smiling.

I dismissed this at first, then watched it again. The 3rd person (2nd follower) joined in since the leader embraces the first follower. That simple acknowledgment made a world of difference and started the movement. Powerful piece.

There is no movement without a first follower. I think that it is clear that unless someone take charge, of a situation and try to recruit others to follower their plan nothing will be accomplished. Leaders are actually followers in the since that they get ideas from the actual followers, and encourage and innovate the follower that gave them the idea to help implement the new plan.

Now, that was interesting. One has to have guts to stand out and risk a lot to become a leader. That is really inspiring...
Another thing, he wasn't probably sober and that is another thing to think about ;)

wow This is a really inspiring video

Really good! Congratulations for this article.

Nice post from the author !!!......i will surely try this leadership technique in my life and hope to get a success to achieve small or big thing. Nice video and thanks for the article.

I think you are a bit of genius Derek!

Great video. I found this on YouTube and used it as part of leadership development meetings with my team.

“There is no movement without leaders – you have to have guts to stand up and do nuts!” great words Derek. And why do we get followers even we “do nuts?” Because followers follow leader because they want to and they feel it is right, not because they have to! Therefore, good leadership is not pushing and/or pulling people (normally done by lots of modern top management) but acting so that people do it for themselves and by themselves.

Jaro Berce author of “Leadership by Virtue”
(http://leadershipbyvirtue.blogspot.com/)

This is genius! Pure genius! So glad I came across this.

Everything you said is true and the video compliments it perfectly.

Need to watch it again and again now haha :)

Do you still do much talking? I'd love to see you at a conference if this is the kind of stuff you come up with!

...and the leader disappears and all you see is the movement. that's ministry!

this is one of the best videos i have seen so far.

this is one of the BEST videos i have seen ever.
i watch this same video once a week at least!
i really liked the way you gave an entirely different picture of a leader,his creation and his surroundings. this is will help me in my life. if possible please come to Kolkata, India and deliver a talk.
thank you
take care :)

"the first follower turns the lone nut into a leader!"-amazing

Thanks for using my video! It kind of sucks that you can make money off of it by using the content yet I cannot through youtube since I dont own the music. Oh the way the world works with its legality. As long as you dont claim it as your own keep spreading it.

Drew Kellerman

great job

Thx :)

As a dancer, storyteller aficionado, event organizer and retired UU minister I really enjoyed this clip and your analysis of it. It reminds me of a story by storyteller Bill Harley called "Bear's All-Night Party." I'm going to go back a review it again through the lens which focuses not merely on Bear but on the "first follower" and others who joined the movement early on.

BTW, as a musician, I'm sure you would appreciate the convincing story / argument /case Harley makes for "Build Me Buttercup" being the greatest Rock-n-Roll song ever. I know, I know, you probably think he's wacko they way I did too.... until I heard him make his case.

Thank you for this exceptional illustration of the importance of the followers!

I love this

This video show us the importance that has being a good leader, because a leader is a person that is a model, a guide, and taht has the capacity of influence in the others people, for this reason the leaders shoub have very carefull with their behaivor ande the way how influence in others.

Great idea, no doubt. It makes me thinking further: how to become the first follower of yourself? How to transform your own loneliness into your own movement? means: to step behind your idea, to believe in your idea, to embody your IDEA and not YOUR idea. This is the first step. I think. What do you think about that?

Best
Anna
choreographer and dancer

Awesome Learning, Derek. Of all the things I research on the net, this is one of the most life changing ones I have read.

Very nicely said. The rarest of all are the followers that learn how to lead.

That video reveals so much about human nature and the different types of personalities that exist within our species. The leader and first follower needed guts to initiate the process whilst others stayed seated because they were afraid to potentially be ridiculed. As the followers increased, the need to join in became more apparent otherwise a tipping point would be reached where staying seated would possibly lead to ridicule. At this point staying seated would require guts too. It proves that our behaviours are highly influenced by our surroundings.

Derek, I first saw this in a graduate level HR class and it's stuck with me over the last few years. Such a great video for out of the box thinking. Thanks for being willing to share this! - Brad Wallace, Memphis, TN

Mr. Sivers,

I am researching the topic for my Original Oratory in the National Forensics League. This video and your Ted Talk are what gave me the idea in the first place.
I was wondering if you had a place where you got this idea and or any other sources that you looked at before presenting this.
I know this was a while ago, but I was really intrigued about this concept.

Thank you for the idea
Yes, it was mostly from the book “Tipping Point” by Malcom Gladwell and “Tribes” by Seth Godin. Plus of course everything else I've learned in life. ☺ — Derek

I absolutely love this video! Thank you very much for sharing

It is important to note that timing to join is important too, as the last people joining were too late because the music stopped already, so no more dancing, if you know what I mean.

Hi Derek--I've re-watched this several times since I tripped over it somehow, a few years back. I think it's brilliant. Is it ok with you if I post something about it on my blog? How best do I respectfully do that, if so? (I'm a relative novice at this "interwebs" stuff.) i.e., This is YOUR work, not mine. Thank you.
It's OK with me. Please share, copy, or anything else. Everything on my site is free for the taking. — Derek

Great Video Derek. Thanks for sharing.

I had to listen to this video for a class I am in now but for a previous one as well. I enjoyed it then and this time. However, listening this time I heard it and it hit home for some projects I am presently working on. Great and thanks for sharing your creativity with the world.

Ah, this lesson was one of the best lessons I have learned in the business field and I saw this video at a very right time!
Thanks for always be simple and straight forward when you explain something (or, maybe I should put it this way: "your explanations and talks are always simple and straight forward. Good work! ;-)"

Hello Derek, I have been in Management for over 30 years and wish this simple explanation on leadership was around when I was in my 20's. I share the video with every person I meet who wants to make a difference in the world. Thank you for being a stand in making a difference.

Derek,

Exceptional message and so clearly and concisely put. Thank you so much for sharing!!!

Thanks Derek. It is great to see how you have portrayed an event displaying basic human behaviour into a leadership lesson. Your description is witty and subtle.
Take care.

Great! A visually refreshing and knowledgeable blog. Thanks for share.

http://www.amarvoice.net/submitting-blog-to-technorati/

This was a great example with a video to bring the words alive. It changes the way I perceive the word leader and when I hear leader I will remember this video.

There is some great truth to be learned from a nut. 

When I think about how easy it is to be a spark to someone's flint, it becomes much more understandable as to why we have so much chaos.

It is one of the best talks i have seen.
thank for sharing it with us.

excellent. I love this - had to watch for a class I'm taking (POL381 at MetroStateMN), and I am sharing it on FB and linkedin - love the narrative and image. Very Powerful and succinct lesson. Thank you!

I like how you connected the first follower to being a leader as well. Awesome!

That was freaking fantastic! Really inspiring and thought provoking. Thanks!! Rob McNelis from TunaHack sent me this way FYI.

Hi Derek,

Great video on leadership. I will be completing a leadership presentation at a hospice and palliative care conference. Am I allowed to use this video?

Thank you

Bonna Longo, MSN, RN

Yes, everyone is allowed to use this video. Go for it! — Derek

Hi Derek,

I am an asst professor of political science at florida state university. Your video was sent to me by an student, after a lecture on collective action and tupping points.

Before I blast the YouTube to the class I am dying to know: where was dancing man/tipping point filmed? It looks to me like to gorge amphitheater in Washington state, where I was raised.

Thanks! Amanda
Yep. Go to the YouTube page for the video, then in the description you'll find a link to the original original. — Derek

Hello I am Yukung Lee, an university student in S. Korea.
I really enjoyed your video clip. I want to ask a couple of questions about your video.
I have been attending a class about leadership and I was give a group presentation about leadership.
As I got some inspirations from your video and me and my team mates decided to present about follower-ship. In the presentation, we also decided to focus more on the first follower. So as you presented about the follower-ship, I would like to know the basis of your video about follower-ship. Also I would like to get your opinion in terms of follower-ship(it would be grateful if you focus on the first one). I will leave my email address and am looking forward to yours response.

Derek - thank you for sharing this inspiring video. We've used this as one of our teaching tools about leadership to inspire our team. Even though you've made this in 2010, it's still making an impact in people's lives even now and will continue on. Thanks and many blessings to you!

Writing an essay about this spectacular speech for my English Honors class

Very inspiring video, keep posting dear

Hi, it ist great! Would you allow us to show it in our staff Trainings? We would quote correctly. Best regards! Judith
Yep! Everyone please feel free to use it in any way you'd like. — Derek

I have been a teacher and run a company called Playworks Oz since the early 'noughties'. I came across this a few years ago and I'm so very pleased to be able to contact yourself. I have wanted to ask your permission to use this and I have used this footage and a variation of your leadership points (filled with guilt I might add). I find it is a beautiful way to make the point to kids that Leading is serving the vision (movement) not the self, that leaders are not always the most visible or remembered even when they are the most important and a handful of other pertinent messages. This is such a playful way to engage leaders of all ages and helps highlight my own agenda-playful teaching moments work.
Thank you.

This is wonderful - insightful and engaging. I am giving a talk at the Open University (education in the public interest) next Tuesday, on my team's practice of sharing digital media to serve global justice and global survival. My team have been considered 'lone nuts' over and over again as we innovated all kinds of sharable 'world firsts' in digital media over the past 21 years - e.g. creating the world's first portal on global justice in 1994-5, civil society's first spider and search engine, first free citizen radio exchange (e g in the Balkans during the Kosovo conflict), first livestream commons at the Copenhagen Climate Summit, using mobile phones for hundreds of thousands of kids at risk in Africa, etc. But everything we did was public and open to sharing - and did help masses of others to follow suit as equal followers. I would love to finish my talk with a clip from your joyous video. Would that be ok with you? Or does TED now own the copyright, after you did your talk for them? I would be delighted to share my talk with you, if you would like to see it.

Thanks for sharing this useful video and article.

Leading by example is the best form of leadership. If you want people to follow you, set the example of how to follow. Great blog post.

Sherman,
www.lyfemarketing.com

Absolutely brilliant, you put it visually
in a nut shell.
Thank you.
Deana Stone

Lovely illustration. I couldn't agree more with your truth. If the world just has leaders, who're they leading? But what I've come to know, and have written on (championsmeal.wordpress.com/2013/08/13/leadership/), is leaders need followers and vice versa. So, one can't do without the other. And you could say the leader need the follower more.

Thanks for penning.

...interesting, aie?
agreed with you, Derek --especially this quoted from above, "...the first follower is the spark that makes the fire."

So true and so real but is everyone willing to understand and embrace? I certainly will, great outline and approach.

This is amazing. Inspirational. Sometimes you have to put yourself out there and risk being ridiculed to make a difference or start a change.

Funnily enough I actually wrote a post a while back about doing things that may not feel right including hugging a shirtless man.

http://longlivetheinternet.com/double-your-saas-prices/

Thank you so much for this content. I am wondering if I can use some of your advises for my personal blog at http://howtobuildselfesteem.com/ ? This is very interesting. Thank you so much

Dear

I hope you are well. We would like to show your youtube movie with the text at the end of one of our sessions at our conference (www.safetyinaction.com/emea). Can you please provide us permission to show this movie? We are more than happy to reference you or your organisation or anyone else involved for that matter.

Looking forward to your feedback.
Many thanks.
Kindest regards,
Sofie

This is a fantastic lesson we can all learn from. No guts no glory! Thanks for sharing this.

Now!

Great video and concept Derek! Let's get busy NOW!

With out people like this our society would stagnate and disappear. We musicians owe a lot to the first musicians who started to improvise and play jazz/Blues the Punk bands, Rappers. Synth player etc.
One last thought you are never to old to start.

so you're a goat, quietly doing your
own thing, and then you get mobbed by the herd of sheep..

Good Advice,
But the shaky cam made me carsick!
It's best to not watch this in the car. — Derek

I've seen this video before....it's the perfect video to show a point. I, personally, don't do enough to warrant a now page, though I know many people who could use it. Very clever idea, Derek. My mind just BOGGLES at your brains.

Hi there... does anyone knows what is the song that us is playing?
See comment #296 — Derek

Very heart-warming!

Derek I love this teaching! Lone nut and First follower... brilliant stuff. I have the guts!!

dude ! brilliant example. i studied sociology at ucla and learned in depth about the how's and why's of some of the world's greatest movements. this video does a marvelous job of teaching a great lesson in a mere 3min. cheers to you!

Love, Love, Love this video!! Perfect timing for me personally because yesterday I started #30SecsofPeace on Facebook and Twitter with a simple video. Today, I'm reaching out to others to share what they love to do to find that peace within. How cool would it be have a place where everyone could EXPERIENCE 30 secs of peace during their day? Again, thank you soooo much for this video!! And, if you're inspired to share #30SecsofPeace, please go for it! ☺

Chapeau!!! Derek! The literal word comes from the French, and it means 'hat'.

Aside from meaning 'hat' it is also used when giving someone respect, a short way of saying 'hat off' or 'I'm so impressed, I take my hat off'. I would have been standing with my virtual hat off for sure.

The way you did this is ingenius. The clip is perfect. Visually, acoustically (by the way very pleasant voice when you talk/ heard you sing but not speak) and most importantly in form and content. As you said yourself : Be easy to follow. I found it so very easy to follow your thoughts.

It is the way you develop your theory as the clip plays on. It builts up and up and then one realizes the very simple mechanism of this thing called movement... That is mainly achieved by your comments who are describing the increase of momentum in real time.

First of all the lesson to learn is that no one is a leader all by himself.
With no followers you are just a lonely nut. Excellent ! Reminds me of myself.
Secondly the immensely decisive part of the first follower.
He in the end makes all the difference. It is the classical case of combined effects/ or efforts that are as a whole greater than the sum of their parts. Also known as "the addition rule".

It is all so obvious when you think of it. Crystal clear. Thank you for this.

Cheers,
Nico

Hi Derek This video made a movement at my work place. Thank you. The day we watched it. Was the day ARCliink was born. It made so much sense to me it brings tears to my eyes everytime i watch it.Because the message is powerful and simple. Some how we missed it. Thank you for sharing your ideas.

Thanks for this articel. Taxi Den Bosch

Love it!

I want to be good follower than leader I am working with kids live on the street I want to change there life and see them to be good follower

Great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!video derek All i can say is to believe in you and do whats best for you and work hard for all youn want.....leading its all about working hard be positive!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thankx

You know what Derek, I'm a dancer and I do fall into these situations. It is hard to be the follower. You know what some items we do need to be ridiculous to get out our bad mindset of non-motivation. We gotta be strong and show others it takes a lot of work to be up front but you learn so much while doing it. People who are talented I think are just more up in their heads when they get up front but people aren't as talented they just give it a their all ridiculously, not saying talented people like us don't get up their do it.

After being on a show last summer that's is famous, I realize that their is so much more fun and more experience to be a follower.

Anyways...
Derek, it was inspiration and loved how you ,a dot so understandable to us all.

Thanks Derek!

Fantastic - and so simple.................first followers - a new term in my vocab

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this video...we've shared it a ba-zillion times because it sooooo perfectly exemplifies the challenges we face in our profession ! I listened to your, "Anything You Want" book on CD today, and couldn't believe that YOU are actually the same person I've admired from afar because of your video. I, too, am a fan of Seth Godin, and it was the link on his daily blog that introduced me to your book! So happy that I learned about it....YOU are AMAZING! Keep doing what you do...the world needs more "profits" sharing the message of doing what you are passionate about, with intention!

Very inspirational video Derek. I'm working on my new website http://ouutlet.com and this upgraded my inspiration to work hard! Thank u

Hi Derek - I've just finished your book, "Anything you want" and loved it. It has given me some really great ideas to take to work and I'm looking forward to sharing it. Upon finishing your book, I thought I would check out your website and this was the first link I clicked on. So good! I love this fresh perspective (for me) that the momentum comes from those first followers. The video is a wonderfully relatable illustration of your message. Thank you.

Very cool video and inspirational even after such a long time. Lets see if i can apply the science on my new page http://www.puzzel.startpagina.nl

Ill keep following you. Thanks.

Most awesome thing I have seen/heard in a long time...had to share ;)
Great piece!
Frankie

A great lesson. And well demonstrated with above example. Thank you.

I'll email you one day if it's not the redundant drudgery you still respond to with grace.

Most awesome thing I have seen

I love love love this. It takes both confidence and humility to proclaim that someone else had the idea that you will invest in. If we think the only ideas worth following are the ones we make and get credit for, there's a problem. The first follower became a leader, encouraging others. A good idea is a good idea, and originality is only as good as impact.
Using our own minds doesn't mean never following. It means using our own discretion about it, instead of just blindly following scripts. It takes a lot if awareness and self-assurance to recognize and support a new thing.

This is certainly the best leadership seminar in under three minutes that I've ever seen. Come to think of it, it may simply be the best leadership seminar I've ever seen, of any length. Well done and thank you!

We would like to use this video in a presentation. Are there any copyright issues?
Anyone wanting to use this, just email me at derek@sive.rs — Derek

I love it! Thank you for the succinct analysis!!

wow!
thanks Derek.
You're a good observer.

I love dancing myself but there are times I get people want to provoke me into a fight if I dare to get up and dance, this only happens in the UK however, when I go to latin countries, it feels that I am embraced&treated with so much more respect. I'm often mocked in a nasty way and women do this often (I'm no looker/eye candy admittedly, and I am 38, but I dance with the wildness and passion of a 25 year old fiery red head, "i am a red head of course")

yet, many of the older people in the last 2 years have told me I am a very good dancer so I don't really know what to believe.

Following my 1st comment, its great that people have the courage to be who they want to be, it comes with a huge risk/price, I know. I'm the autistic oddball Asperger's red headed man and have suffered immense bullying from it and going to bars puts me at huge risk and it lowers the confidence in actual fact when you know that you run the risk of being ganged upon by bullies just for simply dancing the way you want to do, and feeling the music. Plus I look easy to most people, even some women have wanted to fight me in the last year or so nearly. the uk has a hostile mentality though I find, especially where dance is concerned, the night life is excessively aggressive but I feel I dance natural moreso after a few drinks, as I loosen up and lose the fear stiffness (due to the bullying and mocking in my years)

Hi Derek,

This is awesome! I can resonate so well with this!

For a very long time, I was a lone nut! However, the role of a leader is really overrated. Leaders are visionary. They see things that many have yet to believe and act. You are absolutely right that there is no leader without follower.

I'd like to add that there is no movement without the first few loyal followers. When followers come and go, there is moment but no momentum to create that end result as shown in this video!

Viola Tam

Really interesting dance xd

Cool video, i think i have seen in before. Do you know where it is from?

I watched this countless of times, it doesn't get old. Great way to explain leadership.

Great way to explain leadership Derek. I'd already watched this video several times but it did not get tired of me.
And also want to see you here Derek motivational speakers seattle if you are in leisure.

Still one of my favourite talks ever.

where did you get the video from?
Just found it on YouTube. The guy who filmed it said it was OK to use. — Derek

I like your talks

Great video. I've never thought about the first follower. Interesting perspective.

The Importance of Creativity, Dreams, Play and Leadership in K-12 Education
CREATIVITY AND THE ROLE OF ART IN SCHOOLS

K12 playground: Creativity is the least important, most important attribute and totally absent in the U.S. Federal Department of Education. ~ Karen Ellis

Creativity: An Undervalued Leadership Skill
How often do we describe leaders as creative? The modern leader has to have a lot of differing traits that all help them do his/her best to lead others and make decisions successfully. Is your work atmosphere conducive to innovation, or does it prevent it?

Derek Sivers - IF THE LEADER IS THE FLINT
THE GINIKER: IS THE LIGHTENING BOLT
THEN THE FIRST FOLLOWER IS THE SPARK
THAT PROVIDES THE HEAT WHICH IS (JAZZ)
The first follower transforms a lone nut into a leader.
The 2nd follower is a turning point: it's proof the first has done well.
Now it's not a lone nut, it's two nuts. AND THAT BRINGS #3 AND SO ON....
http://www.edu-cyberpg.com/IEC/creativity-dream.html

Ive come back to this video over and over since I 1st saw it years ago. Fucking brilliant my friend, so simple yet so deep.

Hi

This is spectacular. A really great way to put it.

Thanks.

Are you OK with someone (me particularly) showing your Dancing Guy video in the context of leadership development for managers and leaders? It's too perfect to not use, but only if you're OK with that. If so, thanks in advance.
Yep! Always. — Derek

This is a great idea about leading change or making a movement. Well, I really want my boss to make some smart movement to bring out organization forward. I would love to be the first follower if he was really trustworthy. But what if he is a stupid nut and nobody feels like following him yet he seems to be able to stay in his position until his retirement?

The best explanation I ever heard.
You are awesome!
Thx!
P.S. Maybe I can help you with something?
Don't be stranger!
Email me.
Let's change the WORLD! :D

Another first follower that has inspired me all my life is Andrew from chapter one, book of John. While his brother Simon Peter gets the glory for being a talkative-leader-extrovert, it was Andrew who ran and found him to tell about Jesus.

Also, it was quiet Andrew who, in that big crowd one day, found the boy with the loaves and fishes.

Hi Derek - We'd like to use your video at a leadership event at the start of November. We have asked you previously to use the video at our events, but we wanted to check that this would still be ok. Many thanks and great video - very popular!! Chris
Yep! Everyone has permission forever. — Derek

Brilliant. I posted it on my LinkedIn page.

the most important thing in leadership, is, the others see you as a leader!

Derek,
I was wondering if I could get permission to show in a public setting your Ted Talk or the voice over with the Dancing Guy? Also do you have a link where we could access a higher resolution of your talk.
thanks
Ken
Yep! Everyone has permission. No need to ask. Sorry this download link, above, is the highest resolution of the video. The guy who shot it was using the low-resolution setting on his camera. — Derek

Hey Derek, this is one such great video showing how to achieve in your life.

I second Toggo on this that having guts is all it takes to take your where you ever wanted to.

Some are born with these skills and some harness it. There are experts like TJ Walker who help people achieve just that.

www.simpliv.com/author/5a25b272aed68a00670782fb Hope someone finds this helpful.

Hi Derek, I love your "Dancing Guy" video and would love to show it at an upcoming leadership workshop that I am facilitating with a small executive group at a Federal agency. May I have permission to show the video at the meeting? Thank you! Lee Frothingham
Everyone has my full permission, yes. — Derek

It happened again!

www.facebook.com/elifrombrooklyn/posts/1488130044646861

Some applications of this idea are here:

getlighthouse.com/blog/first-follower-principle-leader-learn/

Great video!

Is it ok to download this to show it to a group or do I need copyright permission?
Everyone has the right to download it and show it. Just use the download link in the blog post — Derek

HI Derek

First up, I LOVE this video. It's a great message, delivered in a way so that the viewer will surely get it. Secondly, I'm setting up an online training course in Leadership and Management in Australia, and I was hoping I could incorporate your clip into our course. We would expect up to 500 students would be enrolled into our course each year. I would like to refer our students to watch this clip purely for training and educational purposes. Is this OK? Thanks, Tony
Yep! Thanks! — Derek

First follower. Love this short inspiring video. I watched before and again. Thanks!

Hi,
I would like to use this video in my workshop tomorrow - do I have permission to show it as long as I give you credit for the video and all comments made in the video?

It is not easy to be the first one but if you believe in a cause it will be worth it and there will be followers

Dear Derek,

Great video! Can I have permission to use this video in a presentation at the American Association of Nurse Practitioner National Conference in June 2019? If so please send an email with text that includes that I (Teresa Rincon) has permission to use this video for educational purposes at this venue. I will include a link to the video and the credits.

Kind Regards,
Teresa Rincon RN, PHD, CCRN-K, FCCM

My office loves this video and the narration. We play it at our monthly meetings. Do you know where it was shot?

Geez, where was this before I burned all my 20s and 30s sitting under whacko ministers and corporate builder types telling me I HAD to lead? Sometimes you're a Captain, sometimes you're a Sergeant.

Just gonna gush. I love this Ted talk, I show it to whomever is willing to let me show them my favourite Ted Talk.

One question, if you are still monitoring this cite: is this the Gorge?

Thanks,

Tina
Thanks! It's from this">en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sasquatch!_Music_Festival">this festival in Gorge, Washtington. — Derek

As other here have said, "You nailed it Derek!"
Love this video and blog!
Every day, in every way, I am learning something new from your blog.
THANK YOU man!

Such great advice!

This is brilliant, Derek! I've already sent it to multiple friends/family who have tried to make a difference.

I love this post! I’ve experienced this in the “club” setting. I get the dancing started by asking a gal who shows signs of wanting to be the first follower. She simply needs someone to lead. It doesn’t take too long for the “trickle” to start and then the masses job and we are off and “partying”! Great observation!

Hi Simon,
I hope this finds you well and keeping safe. I'm going to look somewhere else for a more recent contact point for you. I notice that these comments are 10 years old.
I have an idea for a movement and I think that you may find it very interested in being part of it. It is to do with music and it's to do with the LockDown brought about by the Coronavirus
If this does somehow reach you, please would you mind getting in touch?
Reejai!
Aldie.
¿ Who is Simon ? — Derek

Brilliant, Derek!

Hi Derek, I've loved Shirtless Dancing Guy and your narration for years. How do I get permission to show it during worship (we broadcast on FB Live)? Thanks!
Yep! Advance permission granted to all. I've said it many times in the comments here, so please everyone know for all future time, you're welcome to download this video and share or show it anywhere. — Derek

Hello!

My name is Anne and I work for the Dutch public broadcast Corporation. I work as an editor for a educational TV-show for children about nature, climate change and sustainability called Zapp Your Planet. You can watch our show via this link: www.zapp.nl/programmas/zapp-your-planet

Together with kids from Fridays For Future we participate to the schoolstrikes. We want to teach our kids that if you want to make a change, you have to speak up for yourself and that it sometimes help to demonstrate. In this item we want to show our viewers the principle of the first follower. That it's necessary and very helpful to join an leader. Than we can make a change if we talk about climate change.
We want to show some seconds of the video 'Leadership Lessons from a dancing guy'. Is that okay with you?

I hope to hear from you soon!

Thanks!

Kind regards,

Anne

I've come back to your video many times over the years. It captures in 3 minutes what many people spend hours trying to read in books or via convoluted ways. What's more, it's funny - which means it sticks. thank you for sharing this - I will continue to share for many years to come.

Brilliant! I've watched this as part of a leadership module for Quaker Eldership & Oversight! It's glorious, and so true!! Thank you!

Derek...

My name is Sónia, I´m from Portugal. I just came across this page so I wanted to take this chance to reach out and let you know how brilliant this video is.

After 10 years, I still watch your video, over and over again & often remember it on my everyday life ..it´s simply timeless!

I´ve been the lone nut some times and others the happy 1st and 2nd follower. Each time though, I was always comfortable and content to play each "role" because in the back of my mind, I had your video playing and putting a nice "frame" on it all. You can´t imagine the times, I said out loud : Now we have momentum...

So THANK YOU for making me laugh, for inspiring me, for giving me courage and clarity to look at things in a way I wouldn´t never would by myself...and life just got much simpler & happier.

Congrats
Sónia

This was awesome! The first step is the hardest! He did it and made his own history!

I originally saw this on a Truthstream Media production. Can I post this video on Gab for free? If so, what accreditation do you want?


So many people need to appreciate how to stand for what you believe in a non-threatening, non-aggressive but emphatic way so that people feel safe to be real. I love this example of independent, joyful, enthusiastic expression.

Thanks Derek,

Rachel

my take homme. is a true and caring leader must courageously follow and show others how to follow.

Hi Derek,
I realize quite a few years passed by since you published this video... but I found about it only a few days ago, and I think it's really great! I'm in France and wondered if it exists already in a French dubbed version, or with French subtitles. Do you know? I haven't found such a version.
If it doesn't exist, I'd be happy to translate and make a subtitled or a dubbed version in order to spread it in French-speaking countries. If you agree, I'd need the file without your voice over. Could that be possible? I'll obviously specify your name and the origin of this video in the credits.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
All my best,
Mikhal
I don't know of any either, but you are welcome to! Search YouTube for the original file without my speaking. — Derek

Genius use of media to convey a powerful message! Together with the shirtless guy and his first follower, you have proved that you can make your mark in the time it takes to boil an egg!

This a very inspiring reality example about leadership; very effective, simple yet successful. Thank you.

Liz

Hi there, my name is Wasi Mamun and I am looking to start a curry club in my school. How do you suggest I lead this moment and how do I find a follower to join me with my passion for curry. This video is really inspiring, but how do I find that one follower? I have a friend named Abdul, but he refuses to join me because he thinks he won't get any girls. I know that my cause is just and will be great, but I am struggling to find the follower to begin.

Any thoughts?

Thanks

Wasi Mamun

This is genius for me because most of my attempts to get something going have failed. The reason is that I am too radical and people get scared. In a big project I am working on now I am the first follower and I have found my secret sauce!

Dear Derek, I am an Emergency Physician from Greece and I wanted to kindly ask for your permission to include this video in a webinar that we are organizing with the title: 'How to improve pain management in your Emergency Department' that will be broadcast throughout Europe. It is a free webinar with the aim to improve pain management for our patients and that aim would involve a change in culture, hence the connection with your work. Of course, you will be clearly credited for the video during the webinar. Please let me know if you might disagree.

Dear Derek,
I have posted this before, but can't find it anymore. Posting again, I hope it reaches you:
Dear Derek, I am an Emergency Physician from Greece and I wanted your permission to include this video in a free webinar that we are organizing, titled 'How to improve pain management in your Emergency Department' which will be broadcast throughout Europe. Our aim is to show how to create a movement with the scope to change a culture, and I think that your video is a very efficient way to show people in a few minutes how to do it. Of course, you will be credited for your video during the webinar. Please let me know if you would disagree.
Many thanks,
Nikolas

Hi Derek,

This is an awesome video. I am a secondary school science teacher in Ireland and I'd love to use this video as part of our Irish Schools Sustainability Network (www.issn.ie) Climate and Nature Summit in November during COP28. It's for primary and secondary school students.

Would love to know if that's okay.

Best wishes

Patrick
Yep! — Derek

Every game of "Make Believe", Derek, always requires a first follower, as well ... or it doesn't take off?

sive.rs/mb

Stunning insight, Derek!

I've loved this for a long time. So important right now for healing our politics and planet. As a psychologist, scientist, and author, I train people to thrive individually and in their relationships and then use those skills and that knowledge as a foundation for healing our politics and planet. We need a movement to evolve from an industrial culture that is fragile, destructive, disconnecting, and unsustainable to an ecoystem culture that is resilient, healing, connecting, and sustainable. The hard part is the people. My own contribution is Kindness for a Change, a 10-week online training: oneplanetthriving.com for those who are curious. Best to all of us! Thanks again, Derek, for the inspiration.

My new follower 1 million

I love the video and the transcript. Thanks from a fellow Californian.

great talk! :)
i love that

Ich bin Deutscher - mit 76 Jahren nicht mehr der Juengste und Gesuendeste - aber begeistert von diesem "Vorgang" in Film und Text.... dazu mein ehrlicher Beifall! Seit mehr als 14 Jahren lebe ich mit div. Renten nicht zurueckgezogen, aber durch "neue Energie" inmitten der einheimischen Inselbewohner in der "Rep.Dominicana" was mir offenbar viel zur "Wieder-Gesundung" beigetragen hat. Die "fiesen Monate" Nov. bis Februar/Maerz sind deutlich schneller verschwunden hier i.d.Caribe als sie sich einst vor 15-20 Jahren in Deutschland bei mir "breit gemacht" hatten. Trotz einiger Rueckschlaege im Muskel- + Gelenkbereich bin ich froh + dankbar, diesen Schritt in einen anderen Kontinent gewagt zu haben! Menschen mit aehnlichen Problemen wie den meinen kann ich nur empfehlen in "anderen Breitengraden" ihr Glueck zu versuchen! Es ist nie zu spaet neue Wege zu begehen!
Freundliche Grüße aus caribischen 28-31°!
Peter Giebfried

Great work interpreting this video!! I would like to include in my next book and give you credit of course! Question: where did the video come from? Thanks
Greg Coker
www.GregCoker Development.com
Click the YouTube video link to see the original video, but he gave me permission to share everwhere. — Derek

Wonderful lesson on leadership! I've worked with Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ) for 31 years, and I've used this video for the last 20 or so. It's fantastic. So insightful. Leadership is about service and stewarding other hearts. It's not about ourselves. Everyone needs to see this video.

10k followers please 🥺

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

The video shows how easy it is to follow something simple, but with real issues I can’t join a movement without understanding the full context. On campus, I hear strong opinions about Gaza from people who don’t know the history, including October 7, and this feels personal because my parents escaped violence in Yemen for being Jewish—a story rarely acknowledged. Even a professor once told me, “As long as you’re not a Zionist,” which showed me how easily people repeat labels from media or protests. I’m not asking anyone to agree with me; I just believe movements should be based on knowledge, not trends.

Thanks, Derek, for your sharp observations!

Two fear-conditioned negatives to watch out for:

1) FOMO as an incentive to join: Fear is a poor foundation on which to build movements. The love for the dance seems to be the more solid, observable base here.

2) "...be part of the in-crowd, if they hurry" (aka "Inner Ringing"): As a counter-measure to the fear of hierarchical power is not observable in the first followers; their inquisitiveness to enter into a shared state of joy is more palpable.

Love is more lasting than fear <3

Wow, this is a great reminder that a leader alone can never lead a team you need couple of followers for it to be successful. Being a leader you definitely have to stand out and embarrass yourself so everyone can see what you are doing. Also making it easy is very important because people around you need to feel like anyone can do this.

So very true!
The first follower was not afraid to be ridiculed with the leader.
He trusted him, he trusted himself, he was enjoying the activity , not preoccupied with standing out.
He gave courage to all the others, thst it was ok to have fun and not be afraid of doing something unusual.
I love the coment , that the first follower gave validation to the leader but also the leader focused on the others , not on himself.
Great social experience and way to engage people to do great things.
So much to learn from one another!
Very inspiring and supportive of the self-esteem .

Like and follower