Dandelions likely originated in Eurasia 30 million years ago. These considered ordinary and plain flowers (compared to more showier blooms like rose and lotus for example) were cultivated with care and eaten by the wealthy in sandwiches and salads in Victorian times!

It was a smart thing to do: the dandelion’s Latin name is Taraxacum Officinale, which means “the official remedy for disorders.” We now know that their leaves are packed with calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C.

The dandelion is the only flower that represents the 3 celestial bodies of the sun, moon and stars. The yellow flower resembles the sun, the puff ball resembles the moon and the dispersing seeds resemble the stars. They open to greet the morning and close in the evening to go to sleep.

Dandelions have a taproot which can extend up to a whopping 4.5 metres (15 feet) underground. They are gardeners’ good friends in reducing compaction in garden soil. Dandelion seeds can travel up to 8 kilometres (5 miles).

Fun facts aside, the dandelion has so much intelligence.

In some folklore, the dandelion’s yellow flower sends a message that says something like ‘I shed light upon that which is otherwise hidden’. At this very moment, what areas in your life that need a bit of clarity, warming up, rejuvenation and humour? What needs to be re-think and redesigned?

Passing through the suburbs, looking at the refreshing green fields with bright yellow flowers shining like the sun … doesn’t all this remind you of your childhood? A child’s world is here and now, is presence and receptivity. Where do you need some child-like curiosity, playfulness and carefreeness? How will your organization inspire engaged minds?

Remember how a blowing dandelion seemed to be the ultimate source of communicating with the power that grants wishes? When we saw the seeds of this wishing flower flying away, it seemed as if our wishes are being sent out to the universe so that they can be fulfilled. Not all blows of life take you down; at times, they also give you the opportunity to free yourself. What do you need to let go of with courage? What kind of ‘seed-thoughts’ are you planting? What do you need to do with commitment? What legacy do you want to leave behind?

What would it look like, to live your life of an Intrepid Dandelion: with clarity, compassion, courage and commitment?

What would it look like, to build and lead your organization the Intrepid Dandelion Way: purposeful, passionate, and embracing possibilities?