"良い追随者になれない者は良いリーダーにもなれません。"

Being a good leader means knowing how to follow first. This might sound a bit counterintuitive, but let’s break it down. The core idea here is that effective leadership is rooted in understanding and experiencing what it means to be part of a team, not just directing one.

Historically, this idea has been around for ages. Think about ancient military leaders—before they could command an army, they had to learn the ropes as soldiers. They had to understand the struggles, the discipline, and the camaraderie. Only then could they lead with empathy and insight.

Take the example of Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. Before he became the head honcho, he spent over two decades in various roles within the company. He understood the ins and outs of the business, the challenges employees faced, and the culture of the organization. This experience made him a more relatable and effective leader. He wasn’t just some distant figurehead; he was someone who had walked in his employees' shoes.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by immersing yourself in the foundational levels of your field. If you aspire to manage a team, take the time to work within one. Pay attention to the dynamics, the challenges, and the victories. Engage with your teammates and learn from them. It’s not about climbing the ladder as fast as you can; it’s about building a strong foundation so that when you do reach the top, you’re not just standing on shaky ground.

Imagine this: You're part of a startup. The environment is fast-paced, and everyone wears multiple hats. You dream of one day leading a project. Instead of immediately vying for that leadership role, you dive into the collaborative work at hand. You listen to your peers, take on tasks that need doing (even if they’re not glamorous), and learn different aspects of the business. Over time, you gain a comprehensive understanding of both the big picture and the minute details. When the time comes for someone to step up as a project leader, you’re not just seen as a capable candidate—you’re seen as someone who truly understands the team and its needs.

Applying this approach isn’t just about gaining respect from others; it’s also about self-growth. As you follow, you develop empathy, patience, and a deeper understanding of human dynamics. You learn to appreciate the value of each role within a team and how they contribute to the overall success. This makes you a more compassionate and insightful leader.

So, the next time you find yourself dreaming of that leadership position, remember to take a step back and embrace the role of the follower. Engage deeply, learn earnestly, and build those crucial relationships. Leadership isn’t just about giving orders; it’s about understanding the journey from the ground up. By doing so, you’ll lead not just with authority but with authenticity and wisdom—the kind that only comes from having been in the trenches yourself.