Practicing your skills in being a good follower will make you a better leader. You learn a lot about your own leadership skills when you learn the art of followership.
Bishop Fulton J Sheen says that civilization is in danger when those that haven’t learned to obey are given the right to lead.
A leader who has followed well can lead others well. By “walking a mile in their shoes” you remember what it feels like to be led. You keep a perspective of the qualities of effective or ineffective leadership.
When you forget what it’s like to follow, you develop unrealistic expectations, become rigid in your thoughts, autocratic, and prideful.
When you possess solid skills in followership, you are more a more effective leader and lead with humility and understanding.
You can become a better leader in your organization by taking on a follower role in other areas of your life. Through a volunteer role, an association membership, or another group setting, allow yourself to be lead. Become the follower outside of your work setting so that you may stay grounded and keep perspective in your leadership role.
Where, in your life, do you hold the follower position?
