Why do so Many People Blindly Follow Trends?

When it comes to a variety of human behaviors, there are numerous psychological and sociological factors at play. Among these factors, the inclination to follow instead of leading is particularly intriguing. This phenomenon is often coined as 'followership' and can be traced back to deep-seated issues within personal development and societal structures.

Personal Experiences with Followership

From my own experience, I’ve always been a proponent of leading rather than following. However, when faced with tumultuous life circumstances during my younger years, particularly in a dysfunctional upbringing, the capacity to be a leader was often out of reach. In such an environment, where support systems and role models were lacking, both in strength and guidance, it was sometimes easier to fall into the role of a follower. Specifically, the lack of self-worth and understanding of self-worth made blindly following a natural avenue. In such an environment, there was no concept of self-resilience, and those individuals were often left without the means to form their own judgments.

One common reason for adhering to a follower mentality is a fear of failure. Past experiences of negative outcomes can render individuals distrustful of their own judgment. Hence, they seek the guidance of those who appear to have a more authoritative or well-articulated stance on life's challenges. This often leads to blind followership, where one mistakes the opinions or advice of others as infallible, and consequently, loses the ability to think for themselves. Self-worth and self-resilience are critical traits that can empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges more effectively, but when these are lacking, it can result in an overwhelming desire to follow instead of leading.

Natural Instincts and the Animal Kingdom

The instinct to follow can even be observed in the animal kingdom, where followership is deeply ingrained. In many species, a herd animal will naturally follow the alpha, the strongest or most dominant member of the group. The alpha’s leadership is often established by dominance, and the rest of the herd simply follows suit. This is a survival mechanism that encourages collective protection and survival. Interestingly, this instinct can also extend to humans, particularly those who lack a strong sense of self or who have been subjected to environments that aim to reduce their personal agency and autonomy.

Formative Years and Their Impact

Human development is often significantly influenced by the first seven years of life. During this period, the foundational aspects of personality and behavior are heavily shaped. This critical phase of development can set the tone for later life, making it harder for individuals to shift their mindset later on. While some might argue that change is always possible, the inclination to accept the status quo and seek comfort in familiar patterns is a powerful motivator. In many cases, it’s easier to stay in a state of negativity or sadness than to actively pursue happiness and change.

The Power of Positive Influence

On the other hand, there are individuals who have managed to break free from these negative cycles. For example, my sister, while deeply rooted in a mindset of sadness, is a testament to the profound impact that a positive influence can have. She was raised to believe that sadness is the only way to be, which reinforced her beliefs. In contrast, my own upbringing instilled a belief in happiness, making me less prone to accepting sadness as a life sentence. These examples underscore the critical role that early life experiences and the environment play in shaping one’s approach to life and decision-making.

The Dangers of Gaslighting and Brainwashing

Moreover, personal and societal manipulation techniques like gaslighting and brainwashing can exacerbate the problem of blind followership. Terror and fear can serve as powerful motivators, leading individuals to give up their autonomy and discretionary thinking in pursuit of perceived safety or protection. These manipulative tactics can be particularly insidious, as they often operate under the guise of care and guidance, convincing individuals that their distress is irrelevant or their fears are unfounded. In such situations, individuals can find it immensely difficult to break free from the grip of these manipulators.

The Broader Context: Economic and Political Structures

From a broader perspective, societal and economic structures often encourage followership as a means of control and domination. Political and economic systems are designed to instill a sense of indebtedness and allegiance among individuals. Historically, there have been instances where lords and rulers had their subjects follow them unthinkingly, often using force or coercion. While such overt methods have become less prevalent, covert forms of control, such as advertising and institutional messaging, can still lead to pervasive followership. The prevailing ideology is that blind following is often seen as a mark of loyalty or respect, but in reality, it can stifle individual thought and initiative.

It is evident that the tendency to follow rather than lead can be a result of numerous factors, including personal experiences, psychological conditioning, and broader sociopolitical structures. While it is essential to recognize the value of guidance and mentorship, it is equally important to develop a healthy sense of self-worth and the courage to think for oneself. Only through self-awareness and the ability to question our circumstances can we truly unlock our potential and be the leaders of our own lives.