Are you a leader or a follower?
As people, we often default to dividing individuals into these two distinct groups. This truly begins in childhood. Children are assessed for particular personality traits and strengths and given one of these two classifications.
These labels often follow people throughout schooling, adolescence, and into adulthood. They may influence important decisions such as what industry to get involved in and what job opportunities to pursue. Perhaps you’ve had an experience such as this.
(Yes, I realize I am making a generalization and there are, of course, exceptions to particular patterns.)
However, let me pose a question…
- What if “leader” or “follower” isn’t the correct way to think about things?
- What if most people actually have the opportunity to be BOTH, and I’d argue, NEED to be both?
Here’s what I mean…
In its essence, leadership simply means to use your unique set of skills to influence a group of people. Whether or not you hold an official title, you likely have at least one area in your life where you have the opportunity to lead others.
Perhaps you are a leader in the workplace, leading a team or department. You may be a leader in your Church community, neighborhood, or volunteer organization. Or maybe your leadership comes in the form of parenthood, leading your children every single day.
In order to lead others well, we must first seek mentorship from other individuals who can offer insight, wisdom, advice, or simply their example.
In other words, we are more effective leaders when we learn to follow others.
Here are just a few notable reasons why MENTORSHIP is so important:
- Seeking mentorship is seeking growth. A mentor can help you identify areas of growth in your own life and give you wisdom or advice to help you strengthen those key areas.
- There are always people who know more…use them. Why learn the hard way what you can learn faster (and easier) from someone else? There is so much knowledge and wisdom that can be acquired through following another’s lead.
- Feedback. Feedback. Feedback. Ever feel like you are too close to the minutiae of your own life to truly be objective in making decisions or identify strengths and weaknesses? We all experience this from time to time. In these moments, an outside perspective is crucial. Finding a solid mentor to give you honest and clear feedback can be an incredible tool for further growth.
If you want to be a stronger, more effective leader, start by seeking positive sources of mentorship! If you are looking for a place to share and learn from the experiences of others, I have a program for you!
Click HERE to get on the waitlist for my Intentional Leaders mentorship community [currently being reimagined to serve you better]. In this group, you’ll find collaboration, education, and mentorship to support you in your leadership journey.
Article was contributed by: Maria Lees, Team Writer with Sarah Boxx
