How to Spot the Leading Edge Divergent of Your Generation
- Brainz Magazine
- Feb 6, 2025
- 5 min read
Written by Latasha Nicole Phillips, Life Purpose Coach
SoulFlwr LLC is a sacred service-oriented business with a focus on assisting those who come in contact with personal development progression with a focus on the self.
Have you ever found yourself feeling as if you do not belong? Do you not identify it with traditional aspects of our society? Or do you tend to clash with authority figures? Maybe you are seen as very independent? What about an estranged relationship with family and friends? Did you have a difficult childhood or past?
If this is the case, you may be the leading edge divergent of your family.
What is a divergent?
Science agrees that even every snowflake is naturally different. However, we humans tend to be more comfortable when the people, places, and things around us are predictable. There are some of us, however, that do not fit in these boxes of comfort. We have a uniqueness that shines through our ways of being that can be seen initially as rebellious but becomes inspirational throughout generations. For fun and to be informed, let's look into some of the traits that a leading edge divergent may carry.
Unconventional
Leading edge divegents do not live what we call a “normal” life. They are usually ahead of their time. Some of them are heavy into whatever passion or craft that they pursue or are already creating. They tend to be highly creative, which is the reason why they come off as so eccentric to others.
Leading edge divergents have their own style. They are aware that they are an original. This is why many are seen as trendsetters, influencers, and trailblazers. A lot of groups, such as the the technically inclined and the LGBTQIA community, are leading-edge divergent, as well as our younger generations that are emerging. Their ability to walk an unconventional path despite the criticism, judgment, and mistreatment of others is impressive and quite inspiring.
In our podcast called Soul Garden, we call these unique individuals ‘The Other Sheep.’ We have dedicated a complete series in honor of their contributions to our society. This concept is derived from the Christian biblical canon in John 10:16, in which Christ speaks of a group of individuals who are separate from his disciples and the Jewish community of that time. For more information, please check out our YouTube channel, soulflwr444.
Multiple forms of intelligence
Leading edge divergents not only tend to be academically inclined but also carry other forms of intelligence. This can range from various forms of art to science and beyond. Some do well in schools, while others thrive in unconventional learning institutions.
Those who are healthy and are in leadership roles have a strong sense of emotional intelligence. This is the ability to discern clearly their emotions from others. They also can effectively communicate them to others.
Empathetic
Because of a difficult past or childhood, many leading-edge divergents are empaths. An empath is a person who can pick up on the thoughts and emotions of others due to their extra-sensory perception. Their past is the catalyst of this ability. Their empathy creates a willingness to apologize and make amends when an offense is created in interpersonal relationships.
Empaths people feel very deeply. Therefore, kindness is a huge indicator of an empath. Since many are positive-oriented, they have a natural tendency to give and expect nothing in return. They often attract Narcissists who (if they choose to be healthy) empower them to face and heal the trauma of their past. If not, they feel shame and guilt for choosing themselves and end up in unhealthy relationships where they are taken advantage of, abused, rejected, and abandoned. Gaslighting is also a destructive tool used to discredit leading-edge divergents. It is highly self-destructive for them to be in these unhealthy dynamics with others, as it can potentially lead to unhealthy behaviors such as addiction. They can also be highly susceptible to mental illness.
Embraces solitude
Due to being different than those in their environment, leading-edge divergent tend to stay to themselves. They are either popular loner, have a small circle of friends, or live like a hermit. The feeling of not belonging is strong with them and can take its toll if they do not find healthy outlets to abate.
Since they are estranged from family, many move away and create their own. These members can include friends, their mate(s), or even pets. The divergent can also join communities with other divergent that can relate to their life experiences.
Has a lot of integrity
Even if it is difficult, it is not in the nature of a leading edge divergent to deceive. Others tend to resent and envy them for their integrity, as it is hard to get over them or place them in opportunities where they can be harmed in some way. This is the case even if the divergent is seen as naive due to their high intelligence and/or consciousness.
The divergent is usually unaware of those who seek to put out their light because it is usually someone that they love and/or respect. Since they feel deeply, they can be blind to the betrayal of others. Others take advantage of this by using the divergent in some way and taking from them.
Another setback for divergents is that they do not respond to competition, as it is not in their nature to be competitive. They operate from a space of abundance instead of lack, even when difficulties arise. They are committed to maintaining their sense of morality and character.
Rebel with a cause
Since leading-edge divergents carry a lot of integrity, they tend to clash with those who do not. It is infuriating to them when the civil rights of others are violated for the sake of greed and other forms of oppression. History is full of accounts where they have spoken up as a result of human rights being violated. Their compassion and ability to love unconditionally is unmatched.
They are often fearless in speaking up specifically for the underdog, the vulnerable, the voiceless, and the disadvantaged. This too, creates many external conflicts for the divergents as they are often bullied in an attempt to be silenced. However, it is always in their hearts to do what is right. This level of character makes them highly susceptible to ridicule and isolation for not following the status quo.
Final summary
In reality, no one can tell us how to be or exist, but they can inspire us.
Leading edge divergent is an example of this truth, and they find it hard sometimes because of it. Many are ostracized, exploited, isolated, and even killed for their rebellion against her mentalities. But where would we be without them? How could we evolve? We suggest being grateful for that distant relative/friend that fits this description or even for yourself. After all, there is no revolution without a catalyst. Divergent has been and will continue to show us how to expand past what we commonly know and experience in our realities. If this is you, we salute you and look forward to how you will shape our future moving forward.
Read more from Latasha Nicole Phillips
Latasha Nicole Phillips, Life Purpose Coach
Latasha Phillips & Shawn Cross are African American female leaders in mastery learning and meditation fields who assist others in personal development and self-improvement endeavours. They have two decades of experience with various tools and resources that they currently use to live lives of inner peace and fulfillment. They created Soulflwr LLC as a sacred service to all who are ready to heal their past and themselves.
