When I was a little girl, we often played a game called “Follow the Leader”.  One of us was chosen to be the leader, becoming the first in the line, and everyone in line behind us had to mimic or do what the leader did.  If the leader skipped, we skipped.  If the leader raised their hands, the rest of us in the line raised our hands.  As a child, everyone wanted to be chosen to be the leader.  Pick, me…Pick me!  We thought this game was fun!  Even in this childhood game, the person being the leader influences the actions of those following them.

As adults, we often shy away from leadership and few of us believe being a leader is fun.  We may doubt our ability to lead or prefer to be a follower.  We may question our capabilities, temperament and creativity.  Whether we believe ourselves to have leadership qualities or not, we are all leaders.  Wherever you live and whatever you do, people are following you.  They are observing your behavior and following your lead.  Are you a parent?  Your children are following you.  Are you employed?  Those you work with are following you.  Do you ever leave your house?  Those you encounter are following you.  Do you post on social media?  Someone is following you.  Whether you want to be a leader or not, you are.