More resilient than you think

Like a lot of things he does, this is controversial. But across his 21year career, this program sticks with me, mostly because of its profound message of hope.

Derren Brown is a psychological illusionist that some people think is a shyster. But not me. I am a believer - in his good intentions and his incredible skills and thought-provoking body of work.

In his program, Apolcapyse, he convinces a lazy, directionless young guy, Steven, that there's more to life than crisps, telly and a night out at the pub.

Derren does that by transporting Steve into an apocalyptic world filled with zombies [obviously] and provides experiences that can allow him to step up and be courageous... or not. He is given the opportunity to take care of a teenage girl who is also lost in this constructed world. They are each attempting to get back to those they care about.

The ONE THING that I took from this is we are more capable and resilient than we think. By giving Steven a purpose, agency and mentoring along the way, he does step up.

With the right conditions, something worthwhile to believe in, some responsibility and support, we are resilient and capable beyond our expectations.

It gives me hope for humanity - and it is a recipe we could apply in our workplaces.

#doonethingdeep #hope #resilience #derrenbrown

Here is a link to his YouTube channel where you can watch Apocalyse – and a million other fun and disturbing things – for free. https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialDerren

Gayle Smerdon