Lead, follow, or get out of the way

In the modern day world of leadership are Thomas Paine’s famous words, “Lead, follow, or get out of the way.”

First and foremost, Thomas Paine’s Common Sense advocated an immediate declaration of independence, postulating a special moral obligation of America to the rest of the world. Not long after publication, the spirit of Paine's argument found resonance in the American Declaration of Independence.

Might Mr. Paine’s words serve to support your own mantra for independence and a moral compass for those people you lead? What is your obligation to yourself and the rest of your world? See what happens when you take some time to contemplate and actually answer these questions. It’s a challenge worth taking and here is why:

You are forced to consider how your thoughts and actions contribute to your personal leadership style: Am I leading, following, or in my own way?

You discover how often you hold yourself accountable.

You’ll know if you demonstrate leadership to others through your own actions.

It’s an opportunity for you to check in with yourself and come to terms with your own moral compass.

You’ll have an answer at the ready when life asks you to : “Lead, follow, or get out of the way.”nn