ADVERTISEMENT
What It Really Means to Be a Follower
Before dismissing followership, it’s important to clarify something: following is not inherently bad.
Healthy societies require cooperation. Teams require people who can execute, support, and contribute without always being in charge. Learning from others is essential. Even great leaders must follow at times—follow principles, mentors, values, or a mission greater than themselves.
But there is a critical distinction between conscious followership and passive submission.
Conscious Followers:
-
Choose who and what they follow
-
Think critically
-
Contribute ideas
-
Act with integrity
-
Can step into leadership when required
Passive Followers:
-
Avoid responsibility
-
Wait for instructions
-
Fear standing out
-
Blame others for outcomes
-
Trade freedom for comfort
The problem is not following—it’s never questioning, never initiating, and never taking ownership.
Continue reading…
