Chapter 1: The Problem with “Thought Leader”

The phrase "thought leader" has permeated the corporate landscape like an unstoppable contagion, impacting both the deserving and undeserving. It's high time we address this issue. If you've ever thought about adding this label to your CV or LinkedIn profile, I urge you to reconsider. If you’re already using it, remove it immediately upon finishing this article.

Genuine thought leaders don't need to proclaim their status; they simply embody it. You wouldn't feel the need to announce that you're a war hero, a saint, or a genius. Likewise, avoid declaring yourself a thought leader. Let your ideas shine through your actions and words. If you truly are a thought leader, your influence will be apparent.

Using this title may come across as desperate. Who aspires to be perceived as a mere "wannabe"? While it’s admirable to pursue self-improvement, asserting that you are a leader while still on your journey is inherently contradictory. This contradiction can signal insecurity, and quiet confidence is always more attractive than exaggerated self-promotion.

The rampant use of the term has rendered it virtually meaningless. When everyone claims to be a thought leader, it dilutes the concept entirely. A quick glance at LinkedIn reveals a plethora of individuals touting this title—too many, in fact. It has become just as vacuous as labels like "serial entrepreneur," "social media expert," or even "experienced."

True thought leaders often encounter significant resistance, and sometimes even disdain. This aspect is crucial to understand. Revolutionary ideas typically face strong opposition. Many who adopt the title may not genuinely be leading thought in the manner that historical figures have done. Consider these examples:

• Charles Darwin, known for his theory of evolution, faced enormous backlash from the Church.
• Galileo was ridiculed for asserting that the Earth revolves around the sun.
• Fred Smith, the visionary behind FedEx, received a poor grade on his business plan in school, with his professor deeming it interesting yet unfeasible. The rest, as they say, is history.
• Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba, encountered skepticism over his payment system idea: “I discussed Alipay with several people who called it the stupidest idea.”

Now that you're aware of the implications, it's time to take action.

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Chapter 2: Understanding Thought Leadership

This video, titled "Why Thought Leaders Struggle To Understand YouTube," delves into the challenges faced by those who claim thought leadership in the digital age, highlighting the disconnect between perception and reality.

In the second video, "What is Thought Leadership? With 7 Thought Leadership Examples," we explore various instances of thought leadership and what it truly means to be a leader in thought and innovation.