When times are tough, uncertainty is high, and chaos threatens to overwhelm everyone, followers need a clear picture from their leaders the most. The living picture they see in their leader produces energy, passion, and motivation to keep going. As you strive to improve as an example to your followers, remember these things:
- Followers are always watching what you do. Just as children watch their parents and emulate their behavior, so do employees watching their bosses. People do what people see.
- It is easier to teach what is right, than to do what is right. Norman Vincent Peale stated, “Nothing is more confusing than people who give good advice, but set a bad example.” In addition, nothing is more convincing than people who give good advice and set a good example!
- We should work on changing ourselves before trying to improve others. A great danger in good leadership is the temptation to try to change others without first making changes to yourself.
- The most valuable gift a leader can give is being a good example. Leadership is more caught than taught! How does one “catch” leadership? By watching good leaders in action!
WHAT LIVING PICTURE ARE YOU GIVING YOUR FOLLOWERS?
