Skip the Avengers: Why Entrepreneurs Should Watch 'Black Panther' Again Instead'Black Panther' offers insights into how dynamic organizations can succeed under stress. 'The Avengers' is pure escape.
ByVernon Lindsay•Originally published
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Black PantherstarChadwick Bosemantragically passed away this weekend due to complications from colon cancer. Below is an article from 2018 about the the film and titular leading role that he inhabited— like all his roles — so dynamically and humanely. Chadwick Boseman was 43.
Marvel'sBlack Pantherand Disney'sAvenger Infinity Warare among the most popular superhero films of all time. BeforeBlack Pantherwas released, it was projected to make$160 millionand has proceeded to make$1.3 billionin worldwide sales. There is similar excitement withAvenger Infinity War,which garnered opening weekend estimates of$200 millionin ticket sales, and analysts believe it will surpassBlack Pantherin the coming weeks.
While both films have destroyed box office predictions,Black Pantherremains the film with significant takeaways for entrepreneurs.
The plot of director Ryan Coogler'sBlack Pantherrevolves around the efforts of Wakanda, a wealthy African nation, to maintain peace, independence, sovereignty and sacred traditions against a potent threat from the outside world. The people of Wakanda are led by King T'Challa, Black Panther, who governs the land during the day and fights crime with a team of powerful women at night. UnlikeInfinity War,Black Pantheroffers multiple examples of positive leadership practices consistent with entrepreneurship.
In Disney'sAvenger Infinity War,a team of superheroes works together to fight the unstoppable force of Thanos. For two hours and 40 minutes, Spiderman, Iron Man, the Incredible Hulk, Black Widow, Thor, Black Panther and others fight epic battles with villains to prevent Thanos from securing a powerful set of stones. While the benefits of camaraderie are on full display inInfinity War, it doesn't compare to the teachingsBlack Pantheroffers business leaders.
Related:Marvel's 'Black Panther' Is More Than a Movie, It's a Model for Mentorship
Black Pantherteaches business leaders to follow processes.
在商业领域,it is critical for executives to identify how and when changes among the leadership team will occur. In theBlack Panther电影,存在多次怪罪别人r of power is essential. The transition happens without much discussion among the leadership team and follows a pre-determined process.
When changes in authority take place inAvenger Infinity War, chaos ensues. Everyone who stands in opposition is eliminated. A sustainable entrepreneurial venture values process and input from others when termination or promotion actions are inevitable.
Related:'Black Panther' Director Ryan Coogler Shows Why Gratitude Is an Integral Part of Success
Black Pantherteaches business leaders humility.
As an entrepreneur, it is important to receive and follow the advice of business coaches and senior executives who have valuable insights to success. Throughout the film, King T'Challa humbly consults with the elders of the community before making decisions. They often disagree on the appropriate responses to threats, but T'Challa followed his counsel's advice.
Thanos, who assumed leadership by genocide, does not discuss his plans with anyone. He does what he desires and is willing to sacrifice anything, including family, to obtain the ultimate power. Long-term success in business begins with a leader who values collective wisdom and actions aligned with the company's mission.
Related:Turns Out, Humility Offers a Competitive Advantage
Black Pantherteaches business leaders to find value in inclusivity.
The growing awareness around the#metoomovement underscores that it is imperative entrepreneurs create and support safe work environments for all employees. In nearly every scene ofBlack Panther, male and female characters embody strength, intelligence and mutual respect. While Black Widow and Scarlet Witch of The Avengersplay essential roles in the film, the male characters dominate the decision-making on behalf of the superhero team.Studiesconfirm how diverse and inclusive employees influence companies' long-term profits through the unique perspectives, experiences and skills they can offer a company.
TheBlack Pantherfilm confirms lessons of my own business experiences. Success begins with humble people in power who respect policies, team members and the people they desire to serve. My first business was teaching martial arts to young people in Chicago. When I started I didn't see the potential for more impact, service and profit until I worked with others who added their skills and experiences to strengthen the company. With our collective effort, we expanded our services to include academic supplemental instruction and mentorship.
Although Disney'sAvenger's Infinity Waris growing in popularity, entrepreneurs who wish to acquire some of the best practices in leadership should head back to the movies for another viewing ofBlack Panther.
