The Unexpected Leader

15Leading versus Following

After diving deep into what it means to be a leader, it might seem a little out of place for me to discuss the concept of following, especially as I prepare to close out this book. But it's important to discuss the concept of following as a leader while we're so deep into the book.

Let me explain. There have been several concepts throughout this book that demystify and further define how you should maneuver in your life to be perceived as the best possible leader.

As you do so, it's not always necessary for you to be in the spotlight, to be the center of attention, or to be the most important person or topic of discussion to claim your rightful place as a leader. Within the world of leadership, there is a time to be the main attraction and there is a time to be the co-star. Make sure you are ready to both lead and follow, since doing both is the hallmark of an effective leader.

While I deeply subscribe to the notion that it is your responsibility to declare you are a leader and to utilize the opportunities around you each and every day to elevate to your next level, there is also a way to do that by not playing the main character and instead playing a supportive role.

The very act of understanding when to step aside and when to step up is a pivotal component of your leadership journey. It is a direct reflection of your ability to embrace the various degrees of leadership levels and knowing that as you venture in and out of the levels of leadership, ...