Understanding the Root, Not Just the Fruit: How a Collective Mindset Can Unite Nations, Societies, and Organizations

During my years in South Africa, I often observed how Nigerians were labeled as troublemakers, even becoming threats to the locals. This perception persists, but have we ever paused to ask why? Why do a majority of Nigerians act in certain ways? Instead of criticizing their attitudes or blaming their actions, shouldn’t we consider the root cause of their behavior?

This isn’t just true for Nigerians—it applies to South Africans and every culture. For example, why do many South Africans share a similar outlook or attitude? We can often identify their origins without them saying a word. But instead of understanding these cultural patterns, we rush to judge what is different.

The Bible says, “When the foundation is destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3). This profound truth reminds us that people’s actions are often a result of the environments and systems that shaped them. Poor leadership, whether from parents, religious figures, or governments, has a lasting impact. The attitudes we criticize today didn’t form by chance; they were molded by years of neglecting a deeper issue: the power of a collective mindset.

Poor leadership—whether in families, religious institutions, or governments—shapes attitudes and behaviors in profound ways. When leaders fail to build strong foundations, the ripple effects are felt across societies and organizations.

For example, when governments neglect education and infrastructure, communities struggle to thrive. When parents or religious leaders fail to model empathy and integrity, younger generations grow up without the tools to build healthy relationships or contribute positively to society.

We are quick to blame the effects, but we rarely address the causes. Do we really think acting without understanding will minimize the problem? More often, it magnifies it.

The solution lies in fostering a collective mindset—a way of thinking that prioritizes unity, empathy, and collaboration toward shared goals. A collective mindset encourages us to look beyond individual actions and address the root causes of societal and organizational challenges.

In my book, The Power of a Collective Mindset, I explore how this approach can transform nations, societies, and organizations. It’s a call to action—a call for understanding, empathy, and systemic change.