As followers, we learn by observing and experiencing leadership, both good and bad. Our experiences as followers shape our understanding of what makes a good leader, and what kind of leadership style we prefer. This understanding, in turn, can inform the way we lead when we become leaders ourselves.
For example, if we have had positive experiences with a leader who was collaborative and inclusive, we may be more likely to adopt a similar leadership style. On the other hand, if we have had negative experiences with a leader who was authoritarian and micromanaging, we may be more likely to avoid that style of leadership and instead prioritize autonomy and trust in our own leadership.
Furthermore, our values, beliefs, and personality traits as followers can also influence our leadership style. For instance, if we value transparency and honesty as followers, we may prioritize those same values as leaders. Similarly, if we are introverted and prefer to lead from behind the scenes as followers, we may carry that same preference into our own leadership style.
In summary, our experiences and values as followers can provide a foundation for our own leadership style, and can influence the way we approach leadership challenges and decisions. By reflecting on our own experiences as followers and how they have shaped us, we can become more intentional and effective leaders.
