When I taught my high school friend Debbie Cox her first dance steps, in my Kansas basement, it was more than just a moment of youthful friendship—it was a metaphor for breaking free from social myths that bound us both.
Debbie’s initial hesitance to dance -- her fear of being judged -- was a reflection of a deeper inner myth: that only those deemed "worthy" or "talented" are entitled to express themselves.
In leadership, this same myth, which I call the Social Myth -- based on a genre of Greek myth that both was used to explain and justify social expectations (often unfair) and parallels modern personal belief systems -- takes this and many other forms.
The Social Myth is experienced by you, me, and leaders everywhere when we imagine that we must meet an impossible standard, standards that we believe (often inaccurately) that the world somehow "demands," before stepping into our full potential—waiting until we’re “good enough,” “polished enough,” or “credentialed enough” to lead boldly. But what if the real power of leadership lies not in perfection, but in courageous self-expression, irrespective of social expectations?
Lessons from the Nine Muses
From my dance-floor experiences to corporate and large-scale institutional transformations, here are some key reflections on the Social Myth:
1. The Social Myth Shackles More Than We Realize
Much like Debbie's belief that she needed to be a "professional" to dance freely, leaders, especially ones that are heavily rules- and tradition-bound, such as those in the law, often internalize myths imposed by society or their organizations. These myths dictate that leadership looks a certain way—stoic, infallible, unshakable, or even bulldoggish and obnoxious. Breaking free from these narratives begins with recognizing their influence on your decisions and identity.
2. Leadership Is Freedom of Expression
True leadership is about showing up authentically. The Greek Muses, guardians of artistic inspiration, understood this principle well. They celebrated creativity and individuality, urging mortals to channel their unique gifts without fear of judgment. Leaders who embrace this Muse-like mindset create cultures where teams can innovate and thrive.
3. Finding Your Rhythm
Leadership, like dance, requires finding your rhythm. It’s not about following someone else’s steps; it’s about moving in harmony with your purpose and values. When Debbie finally let go and danced with abandon, she found a joy that transformed her life. She has since danced with professionals in the US, Europe, and Africa. Leaders who let go of rigid expectations can similarly discover new possibilities for growth and impact.
Action Steps
⚡️Reflect on the "social myths" influencing your leadership style. What stories about societal expectations are string-tying your actions?
⚡️ Embrace one area of your leadership where you can show up more freely—whether it’s sharing a personal story with your team, dressing a little bit out-of-the-box, or celebrating a teammates' seemingly oddball idea.
⚡️ Encourage your team to express themselves freely. Celebrate their individuality, much like the Muses celebrated diverse forms of creativity.
Leadership isn’t about conformity—it’s about creating the space for yourself and others to shine. Just like on the dance floor, the moment you let go of judgment is the moment you begin to lead with freedom and inner inspiration.
For more on Debbie's (now known as Deb Voisin) journey, the Social Myth, and finding your own basement to dance in, check out my recent interview with her for The Architecture of Health podcast HERE.
I want your future to be EPIC!
I'm Scott Mason, The Myth Slayer. I am an attorney and former C-Suite executive, coach, speaker, podcaster, and Master of the Mythic. I graduated from Columbia Law School and have spent years drawing on the full depth of a background spanning the private, public, and nonprofit sectors to provide lawyers feeling stuck or stagnant in their careers or as leaders with a unique (and fun!) system to help them live a life that's epic.
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