Real Leaders Don’t Just Lead — They Follow First
The Habits That Form Leaders – Part 1
If you can’t follow, you can’t lead.
Our goal is to make a leader out of everyone because everyone is a leader and can lead someone, even if it’s just one person. However, that’s a minimum expectation—just one person. In reality, no one on earth will influence only a single individual throughout their lifetime. In fact, each person will likely influence and lead many others. The key question is: do you see yourself as that leader? If you don’t see yourself as that leader, that means you won’t lead to the best of your capabilities, and you won’t lead to your full potential.
Let’s begin with this idea of the leader and the follower. Most people believe it’s impossible for a leader to be a follower and vice versa. However, the best leadership arises from being both a follower and a leader. There is not a single person on this planet who hasn’t been a follower at some point. Thus, every leader is, by default, a follower. The follower position begins early in life. When you’re born, the first leaders you encounter are those who nurture you during childhood—usually your mom and dad. However, throughout your life, a person will encounter many leaders, whether teachers or others, who influence you in various ways.
Why is this important? Because you are also someone who influences others. Until you see yourself as an influencer, you neglect that you can impact someone else for the better. Whether you’re a parent, a sibling, or a cousin, you are currently making a difference in the lives of others. The important questions to reflect on are: how are you fulfilling that role? Are you doing your best with that responsibility? Would the creator of all things be satisfied with your leadership? Would the person you respect the most be pleased with how you lead others?
In the following pages, we will explore the idea that leaders are actually first followers. Skipping the follower stage can significantly hinder your ability to become the best leader you can be. I like to identify leaders in various small areas of my life that I wish to master. Then, I take what they offer and use what I need to enhance my own unique skills, talents, and gifts. To be completely honest, I do this with everyone I meet. I look for what they are good at and find a way to incorporate that into my life.
When I speak, I often tell others that I am the biggest “thief.” If I sit down with you for a moment, I will “steal” from you. What am I after? I am after your gift. I’ve discovered that your special skill or talent isn’t for you but is meant for others, and I want it. Therefore, I make myself a follower so that I can become an exceptional leader.
It’s said that the greatest among us are those who serve the greatest. In other words, it is not the person who seeks to be served but rather the one who serves others who ultimately benefits from the gifts of those they serve.
Don’t overlook this prerequisite of being the follower that produces the best leader.
