What Most People Get Wrong About Superman

When I say Superman, what immediately comes to mind? Most people can picture the character flying in the sky, lifting a car over his head, or standing with his arms crossed as bullets bounce off his chest. Some people remember the scene from the iconic 1978 film where a young Clark Kent is racing a passenger train across the prairies in Kansas. The musical score for that movie, composed by John Williams, is legendary. The simple five-note leitmotif instantly captures the power of the character. Except for kryptonite or magic, Superman is nearly invulnerable. A privilege most people would like to have.

But here is what most people get wrong about the Man of Steel. His displays of strength are not what makes him unique. Instead, it's his display of restraint that makes him stand apart. It's the tension of knowing that Clark Kent doesn't really have to work at the Daily Planet as a reporter. He could do whatever he wants because, well, he's Superman!

People have cared about Superman for generations because he uses his power to help, not impress. A person with strength who is secure enough in himself to not use it.

I look up to strong individuals who have great strength but don't spend energy proving it. The leaders I respect and who I believe produce the best results are the ones who can be the boss but would never need to wear that label on their nametag. Yes, they are competent, yes they have skills and experience, but they have hidden power.

How did they get it? I don't know for sure, but I do know that the leaders who have made the most impact on my life are the ones who listened. That's often the hard work of leadership. Listening. Make that your superpower!