I am a leader

I went to a retreat this weekend, and discovered things about myself. I am a surprisingly good leader. Why is that so surprising to me?

I've spent my whole life living small. I have never really wanted to be the 'president' of any organization that I have been in.

I've always thought of myself as a follower. Following other people, making them look good. I didn't want the leadership role. Mostly because it means that the 'buck stops here.'

But in truth, I have always taken on a large amount of responsibility for whatever group I'm in. I have always led. I just didn't know it. And the buck has always stopped here. Because if I don't accept responsibility - who will? Usually nobody.

I'm the one people come to when they don't know where else to turn. Because I will get it done, and if the project needs more than one pair of hands, I know how to get people to work together to "git 'er done."

It's time for me to accept the title of Leader (especially since I've nearly always accepted the responsibility that goes with it.)

We shall see how my life will change with this shift in perception. Wish me luck.

In Joy
Gayle McCain

Leaders and Followers

Today I was in a meeting. It was a meeting designed to figure out where we wanted our organization to go. When we sat down, I thought I didn't have anything to say. I like where we're headed. I'm satisfied. And don't see any real problems.

That kind of vision isn't my strong suit, and I didn't think that I had anything to say.

What I discovered is that although I don't see the vision the way others do, I do see logistical issues. The kind that shows that if we move this furniture to over there - the traffic will flow much better. Or if we change this procedure, the confusion will go down, and the work will be easier.

As I sit here I am reminded of a speech given by my friend about Leadership and Followership. And that it takes both to make an organization run smoothly. By opening up and suggesting these changes I became a good follower. And that is a necessary part of any organization.

I may never have the kind of vision to be president of our organization, but my voice and my ideas are critical to its success.