THE NECESSITY OF DISAGREEMENT

We all want to be validated. Everyone wants his or her opinion, perspective and beliefs to be affirmed by the majority. Newsflash folks… even in cases where the majority rules, that doesn’t mean the majority’s always right.

Disagreement can often be healthy and often times necessary. It’s not always about right or wrong either; sometimes it’s just about a different perspective. That different perspective can often save you time, money or even save your life.

How many of you have ever seen the movie World War Z? Great movie! I’m not a big Zombie movie guy, but I give this one a thumbs up.

They introduce a concept in the movie called “The Tenth Man”. I liken “The Tenth Man” concept to that of the Millennial Mindset. Here’s why…

The role of the tenth man is to challenge conventional wisdom. In the movie, there was a committee of 10 that served as the governing body of Israel. If the first nine members of the committee agreed on a decision about something, it was the responsibility of the 10th man to challenge the majority decision. He had to make a case as to why they should think differently, even if he agreed.

I liken this to the millennial mindset. This generation is often criticized for always challenging authority or thinking they know better. Sometimes even accused of just being rebellious. I see things a little differently.

Millennials want to know why. Doing something just because it’s the way that it’s always been done or because it makes sense on the surface isn’t enough anymore.

Millennials serve as your organizations “10th Man”. They provoke critical thinking. At a time where new and innovative ideas are at a premium, this 10th man millennial mindset is extremely valuable and should be embraced.

I believe it was David Wheeler who said “We simply cannot demonize or vilify someone because they do not agree with us”.

It’s time corporations start embracing the millennial mindset of challenging the norms. Its time to start recognizing and celebrating the value of the 10th man.

“Different roads sometimes lead to the same castle.” ― George R.R. Martin

THE NECESSITY OF DISAGREEMENT