Have you noticed how many articles books and blogs are written about Leadership? Each filled with tips and training nuggets to help you successfully lead. There are even many quotes and sayings on the topic. One oldie is:
LEAD, FOLLOW or GET OUT of the WAY!
I have seen that particular saying a hundred times and I bet it’s familiar to you. The last time I read the saying it was like seeing it for the first time. LEAD, FOLLOW, OR GET OUT OF THE WAY…. It seemed quite harsh and even a bit discouraging. It sounds like something a really tough drill sergeant might yell at his team and I guess that is why General George Patton is credited with this quote. So I thought to myself…. what would I say if I were to replace this saying with something more positive and on point? Within a second the words came to mind.
LEAD, LIFT AND MODEL…
..to me that is truly what leadership is about. Shall we take a closer look at this?…. What does it mean to LEAD? ~ To lead means to take Responsibility ~ A leader is someone who takes action ~ An effective leader is a point of accountability. How does a Leader LIFT? ~ A leader is an Encourager ~ Empowers others ~ Equips those they lead (preparation and training) How would someone MODEL Leadership? ~ Be the Example– Show through your example how to do something ~ We lead through conviction (Steadfast Belief) ~ Teach Systems that work…. Step by step “Leadership is lifting a person’s vision to high sights, the raising of a person’s performance to a higher standard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.” (Peter Drucher) Are you ready to take the lead in your life and in your business? Take the lead by being confident in your actions and inspect what you expect in those who call you their leader. “Start with the premise that the function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” (Ralph Nader)
Yes, I do like my saying much better…. May I encourage you to; ‘Lead, Lift and Model’?….. and let me know which version you prefer to live as you succeed?
~Barbara
Definitely like your words better. you cannot create connection if, you are made to feel the harshness of word like GET OUT OF THE WAY!
words do make a difference!
Thank you Sarah, how important that each of encourage and empower those near us. True Leadership inspires and educates don’t you think? ~Barbara
I love that “When the student is ready the teacher arrives” theory kicks in. I have heard this many times, however, in even more vivid words and have recently been visualizing if we aren’t moving as a leader we are standing in the door blocking others success. I embrace your the new model, Lead, Lift, Model with grace. Grace is the word that I always think of when I think of you. Thank you for living your life out loud for us to model.
Thank you for your kind words. Our perceptions change when we are willing and ready to learn do they not? The building of success is often not glamorous, but the simplicity of consistency, engagement, routines and habits certainly support the growth, gain, and strength of success. Best to you!
~Barbara
Daggumit, I shoulda read the blog before I put it out with the title Either Lead, Follow or Get Out of the Way…..Grrrr!!! Barbara I was privileged to listen in on your Interview and your were not Spectacular, Audacious or Vibrant but you gave me the wisest words of WISDOM I had ever heard. You said the word Credibility, be CREDIBLE. After decades of “Fake it til you make it” mantra this is an area in which I can be very comfortable and succeed. I do relish in all of the excitement and successes of the other NSD’S however, it’s you whom I will follow! Greatest respect ~Olga
Thank you Olga, what a high compliment to have your words on why you follow me. Integrity always matters. ~Barbara