You’ve memorized the Seven Habits of Highly Successful Leaders and the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, maybe you’ve been to every leadership seminar and conference on the planet, you’ve even been in a position of leadership.
But every time you shout “Charge!” and run off to take the next hill, you soon turn around and notice that no one is following. [Don’t worry, I’ve done it plenty of times…]
I want to let you in on a little secret, something that you won’t hear Tony Robbins, John Maxwell, or Bill Hybels say:
Maybe You’re Not A Leader
But here’s something I need to say: That’s alright.
Not everyone is a leader. However, everyone does have talents, gifts, and skills that they need to use and cultivate. It’s important that you use the gifts you’ve been given, but it’s not so important where you end up on the totem pole of leadership.
Be A Follower
Leaders need followers. Find a leader of character who has a vision and a passion that you identify with, and support them. Find someone you would follow and be a member of the team. I’ve posted before about Followership, and the importance of being an effective follower that contributes to a team with initiative, accountability, and enthusiasm.
Be A Sidekick
What’s a sidekick? You know, Batman had Robin, Frodo had Sam, Sherlock Holmes had Doctor Watson, even the Lone Ranger had Tonto (am I aging myself?) A sidekick is someone who directly supports the leader, who provides a necessary addition to the work of the leader. Without a sidekick, the leader may find themselves lost, unsupported, or without the motivation to continue. Without a sidekick, many leaders just wouldn’t be able to operate.
Be A Leader
Finally, it’s okay to lead too: Be a leader wherever you find yourself in the pecking order, be a moral leader and example to your family, neighbors, and kids. Even if you’re not storming the beach at Normandy, living a lifestyle of consistent hardwork, integrity, and morality is enough these days to be a leader and role model to the people around you.
What do you think? Do you agree? Do you have any experiences that prove (or disprove) my point? If so, leave a comment and let us know.