Before you start a REVOLUTION

By: Paul Benson

1. KNOW AND UNDERSTAND YOUR CAUSE

Your cause is the heart of the revolution, and you must be ready and willing to dedicate yourself to it even when others around you avoid or criticize the changes you champion. THEN

2. EDUCATE OTHERS

• A revolution requires that people rally around the cause. It is your responsibility to make them aware. Cognitive dissonance guarantees that many will refuse to align themselves with your cause even when it is in their best interest. Some who do recognize the value will choose to remain as spectators. A few will be willing to rally with you in full participation.
• A revolution must be based on freedom and change for the better. Know exactly what you are improving and how it can be accomplished.

3. BUILD SUPPORT

Continue to spread the word through your words and actions. Encourage your friends to spread the word as well. As more people understand your cause and how to accomplish it, consensus will develop, enthusiasm will grow, and supporters will emerge.

4. TAKE MEANINGFUL ACTION

This is the most important step because the revolution dies without it. Leaders must work day and night to generate support and improve the revolution. Know that those in power will try almost anything “crush the resistance” in order to maintain power. You may at times get discouraged by low morale or lack of support, but don’t let up. Remember, your cause is the heart of your operation, your consensus is the mind of the revolution, and the actions you and your support take are the hands of your revolution.

5. STAY FOCUSED

As more people engage in your cause, you will receive ever greater numbers of suggestions and varying opinions about the way forward. Some will try to steer your cause in different paths. Staying focused on your goal and the path ahead will keep your group from splintering into many directions. Respect ideas and diversity of opinion without allowing them to confuse your course.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

• To be successful, you need to be totally committed; compromise is failure.
• Keep your eye on the ‘big picture.’ Don’t drown yourself in the details.
• Take input from others. Revolution can’t happen because of just one person; don’t be a vigilante.
• You will benefit no one if you are just attempting to consolidate power or gain recognition only for yourself.
• There is strength in numbers. The greater the mass and unity of the movement, the better chance of success.
• Always use the truth, and focus on the good of all over personal gain. Believe in your cause and in your supporters. Revolution is belief.

STAY TUNED for THE STRATUS REVOLUTION

1. The Stratus Cause
2. What action and commitment should we be willing to make?
3. How to stay focused