WHERE TO STAND: BE A LEADER OR BE A FOLLOWER?

Susan P. Anicete, LPT

In today’s generation, the basic aim of a person is to live a decent life and move forward to become a better person. With the molding society we are living in, what are the different roles of a person for him to achieve a maturing and contentment in life?

Each role is equally important as the other. They will be playing vital roles. If there will be no followers, the leaders will not be functional. Incongruent to this, without followers, there are no leaders. Each role will be complementing each other. They are closely intertwined.

If you are in an organization or institution, can you lead a group? Or there are times that you simply need to help and just follow a leader? Whatever role you choose; the success of the group will be determined by the achievement of the goals that were accomplished by both roles.

A leader provides direction, motivation, and influence. A leader will influence people to strive willingly and enthusiastically toward the achievement of group goals. A leader has a magnetic personality that motivates people to perform well. A leader will guide the followers in implementing the decision effectively and successfully. Whereas, followers can shape productive leaders. Followers are expected to demonstrate teamwork and build unity among the members of the group. Good fellowship is characterized by active participation in attaining the organizational goals. This means being accountable for the actions and taking ownership of the necessary task.

Regardless of the motivation, a leader should gain a clear understanding of the role of the follower, a follower sees that their leader plays a vital role. Their roles are indeed essential in a group.

The question is – where do you belong? It is now up to you to choose what will be best for you. Whatever you choose, just be a good example for others to admire and look forward on you.

--oOo-

The authro is Teacher I at San Vicente Pilot School for Philippine Craftsmen