Leader: Everyone Is and Everyone Has
Exploring the paradox that everyone is a leader in some capacity, and everyone has a leader—Part 1 of the Leader series.
In a world overflowing with leadership literature, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of advice on what makes a great leader. Rather than adding to the noise, I want to share something more personal—something you might see reflected in your own life.
This article is the first part of a series that delves into the many facets of leadership. Through my experiences and reflections, we'll explore what it truly means to lead and to be led.
Leadership is often seen as a title or a position, but in reality, it's a role that each of us plays, whether we realize it or not.
The Core Thesis
Here's a fundamental principle I've come to believe: Everyone in this world is a leader and has a leader, but not everyone needs to be a leader.
Let that sink in for a moment.
Leadership is a Paradox
On one hand, everyone possesses leadership capacity and follows someone. On the other hand, not all individuals are destined for traditional leadership roles. This reflects basic human nature—we seek guidance and direction while possessing our own ability to influence others.
Consider these questions:
- What draws us to certain individuals as leaders?
- What inspires followership and trust?
These inquiries reveal that leadership transcends formal positions. It represents the capacity to inspire and guide.
A Thought Experiment
Imagine organizations or nations without leadership structures. What would happen?
The resulting confusion underscores that leadership, regardless of form, provides essential:
- Direction - Clarity about where we're heading
- Unity - Alignment around common purpose
- Purpose - Meaning that motivates action
However, not everyone must lead traditionally. Some find fulfillment following others' visions. This interdependence between leaders and followers demonstrates that followership holds equal importance.
Neither leading nor following is inherently superior. Both roles are essential, and both require skill and intentionality.
The Overlooked Leader Within
Self-leadership remains the most underappreciated aspect of leadership. Before effectively guiding others, individuals must master leading themselves.
This involves:
- Cultivating personal vision
- Clarifying values
- Accepting responsibility for actions
- Managing emotions and impulses
- Maintaining discipline toward goals
The leader you become for others begins with the leader you are for yourself.
Key Takeaways
- Leadership operates paradoxically: everyone demonstrates leadership capacity, yet not all require formal leadership positions
- Leadership proves essential for providing organizational and societal direction
- Self-leadership remains underappreciated but forms the prerequisite for leading others effectively
The Series Ahead
This is Part 1 of a multi-part exploration of leadership dimensions. Subsequent articles will address:
- Self-leadership and cultivating the leader within
- Influence without authority
- Preparing the next generation of leaders
Let's Connect
What does leadership mean to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this paradox of leading and being led.