Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way

Babies, I’m sure you’ve heard this saying before, and if you haven’t, let me introduce you to it. It seems pretty simple at first. It gives you three choices, and asks you to choose one of them.

The truth is that in most situations, the journey takes you through all three.

For example, when raising a child, you lead them, and in the process, they learn how to follow. You show them by example, and teach them that NOT following your leadership has consequences.

You show them that even if they believe that they have a better way of doing something, or if they don’t completely understand your methods or decisions, those decisions are ultimately made with their best interest at heart- even though it might hurt.

They see that in the long run, learning what you teach them will not only help them deal with various situations that you’ve already been through, but they will learn a little about themselves in the process.

Once they learn how to follow, you may give them the chance to lead, by putting them in charge of something.

At this point you follow them, to show them that there is no shame in following. With you by their side, they learn the nuances and difficulties of leading.

You may teach them that although respect is earned and not given automatically, there are times when others will withhold respect when it is due.

You will teach them that the green eyes of envy are always peering around the corner, and the ones who haven’t learned how to follow will attempt to thwart their leadership.

You will teach them that no matter how they feel; no matter what is going on in their lives, they have made a commitment to lead, and they must do just that.

Finally, you get out of the way and let them shine, or fall, whatever the case may be.

This also teaches them that following more closely, and focusing on what was being taught, rather than listening to or creating destructive chatter and criticism, may have helped them to avoid some of the pitfalls of leading.

The fact is, that sometimes people learn more in your absence, than they do in your presence. Sometimes getting out of the way can help someone learn the value of your leadership.

Throughout our lives, we all lead, follow, and get out of the way. Life is a series of opportunities to do all three.

The secret is to know when to do each one.

I would encourage you today, to do each one with enthusiasm, purpose, and pride because you never know when the tide will turn, and you will be washed from one position to the other, and not be prepared for it. Know that whatever position you are in, you have done it to the best of your ability. This way, you can walk away with pride.

Now I’m telling you this because no one else has told you, and because God loves you, and so do I!