Original or Remake?

Are you an original, or a remake? An article in Wall Street Cheat reported that 57 movies are currently in remake mode. Why is there so much interest in old movies? Aren’t they so, “been there, done that?”

The article claims the remakes will crush the originals. If the originals were such hits, why would the remakes be even better? The movie wardrobes, settings and dialogue may be from the past but the story lines are evergreen. Updating the externals with new, fresh actors may be all that’s needed to bring the movie’s former glory back to life.

In the workplace there are originals and remakes. There are pros and cons to both. In today’s changing work environment, there are advantages to both.

Some employees are originals because they were part of the startup group or entrepreneurs who started the company. Others are those who have been with the company for a long time. In today’s work environment, a long time may be as few as five years. Originals have history with the company and a lot of inside information. They deserve respect if for no other reason than they are originals.

Originals can also drag down a company. “This is the way we’ve always done things.” “We tried that once a couple of years ago, and it didn’t work.” Originals can be so stuck in the past that they can’t see their way to a future. Instead of being respected, they are tolerated and passed over.

Remakes are the new version of the originals. They are version 3, 4 or 5. They’re the newest version, just like the iPhone. The original iPhone was a breakthrough. The latest version, however, has all the original features plus all the latest technology. Who wants the original, except a collector? Originals are put on a shelf or in a glass case to be looked at, not to be used. In the workplace, remakes are the new graduates or those with a couple year of experience. They are up on the latest digital technology, communications tools and are open to new ideas. They have an entrepreneurial spirit, are not afraid to take risks, and have lots of energy. 

Remakes see the company or business with fresh eyes. They aren’t willing to sacrifice their lives for the company, but see work as a way to have the life they want, so they are willing to work hard for their lifestyle. Undying, blind loyalty is for the originals. Remakes stay as long as it makes sense for their life and career and gives them something of value to further their goals.

Originals can become remakes. In fact, in order to survive in the workplace, originals have to continually remake themselves. Every day there is something new to learn, master or teach. Those who are continually remaking themselves are the next hit, the next blockbuster. In business and your profession, you can’t afford to be the classic that is put on the shelf to be admired. Instead, be willing to read the script for the next remake of yourself.

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