Chapter 1: The Dynamics of Leadership and Following

Recently, during a gathering with friends, we engaged in a board game called Bristol 1350. In this game, players must navigate a plague-ridden medieval town using an apple cart to escape while avoiding infection. Players have the choice to remain in their cart, push those showing symptoms out, or switch to another, potentially healthier wagon.

After our game night, while heading home, we instinctively followed the crowd down an escalator at the underground station, ultimately missing a train we would have caught had we opted for the usual stairs. Normally, I avoid escalators when descending; they feel indulgently lazy, especially when my knees are in decent shape. Yet, in that moment, I was swept along by the throng.

We weren’t in a hurry; perhaps exhaustion dulled our decision-making abilities. Missing that train was hardly a setback, as we only had to wait an extra ten minutes for the next one. This incident prompted me to reflect on the concept of going with the flow.

Even the most assertive individuals can find it challenging to lead at all times. Leadership can be draining, which is often why some are compensated more for it. It’s not a role suited for everyone. In everyday life, there are times when it’s beneficial to relax and allow ourselves to be carried along by the current. Personally, I prefer binge-watching series over movies because they allow me to make one choice and enjoy it for several seasons without needing to decide again.

In line with this, I’ve always chosen my outfit for the next day each night before bed, a habit I developed as a teenager. I also stick to the same breakfast routine. These decisions alleviate the pressure of morning choices when I’m not in the mood to make them and don’t trust my judgment. In this way, I create a flow for myself that I can follow before my mind is fully awake.

At some point, we all require guidance from others. It would be impractical to exhaust ourselves trying to forge new paths or resist the currents created by others. There are times when our paths align, akin to social hitchhiking. We can benefit from the leadership of others in various fields, just as we might be able to guide those who need our support in return.

The challenge lies in recognizing when to transition from leading to being led. While it may seem straightforward when discussed abstractly, the reality is often more complex.

Leading is a strong mindset, one that requires considerable energy to attain. Letting go of that control can feel akin to relinquishing one’s breath, as if someone else is asking you to stop breathing while they take over. The instinct is to resist, “What? No way! It’s not about trust; it’s just that breathing is what I do.”

Conversely, allowing oneself to be led can be comforting, but comfort can become a trap when it stifles growth. Why would anyone choose to leave a state of ease? This current serves us, so why disrupt it? Even when our current situation is no longer beneficial, we might waste significant energy convincing ourselves it still is. Such is the power and danger of comfort.

This delicate balance we must maintain continues to challenge us. We might possess the strength to lead and the wisdom to follow, but are we adept enough to switch between the two when the moment calls for it?

Today’s dose of cautious optimism: 70%.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections! Your support means a lot as I embark on this journey. Please consider clapping and following.

Who am I, you ask?

I am a musician who writes and a writer who makes music. You can explore more of my work here.

Section 1.1: Leadership Challenges

Even the most confident leaders encounter difficulties in maintaining their roles.

Chapter 2: The Transition Between Roles

In "Can You Lead Those Who Don't Want to Be Led," Jocko Willink discusses the complexities of leadership, especially when faced with resistant followers.

In "How Can I Be Led By The Spirit?" the exploration of spiritual guidance invites reflection on the role of external influences in our lives.