You’ve probably heard the expression “Lead, follow, or get out of the way” countless times. But let’s be honest—it’s flawed

I recently listened to a podcast where an investment fund manager shared how he learned to ski by following his father’s lead. This man didn’t just learn; he became a champion skier. It got me thinking about all the physical and mental skills I’ve improved on by following others: driving, tennis, running, writing, presenting, yoga, taekwondo—you name it.

To be a truly effective leader, sometimes you need to follow, and sometimes you need to step aside. It’s not about choosing one over the other; it’s about knowing when to do which.

Replace that “and” with an “or,” and suddenly, the statement transforms into genuinely wise advice.
Embrace the duality: lead when necessary, follow when needed, and recognize when to step out of the way. It’s a nuanced approach that fosters growth, both personally and professionally.