How To Lead From The Front By Leading From The Back
We Can All Learn How From Wolves!
Most of everything I have ever read about leadership is garbage. Most of the leaders I have worked with, or for, are not leaders; they are tyrants or just plain incapable. Thankfully there are always exceptions. The best manager or leader I ever had in 50 years was in Utah. His name is Nephi Carter. He's the man you would jump through fire for; why is that? Although expecting great and far-reaching results from his teams and workers, Nephi cares. He is a leader whose glory was seeing his teams and workers succeed and improve in multiple ways. He is a manager who has your back no matter what. And to that point, having your back or rear is akin to how wolves and Nephi Carter work. Let me illustrate by using an often-seen picture and explanation.
You will note that the leader is not upfront taking all the glory as number one in line and, therefore, cannot see what is behind him. As with wolves, people do much better when they know they are protected and cared for. Taking care of your pack, as wolves do, is a surefire way to the success of any business or team. The leader allows the older or less able to lead and achieve success. The leader encourages his more vital workers or supervisors to be at the forefront close by and lead the way by teaching and caring for the less experienced. Delegating power and authority allows growth and, at the same, allows the leader or manager to oversee what he has before him. When necessary, he is competent to move quickly to avoid harm to the individuals and the business. Once instructed and taught, the leader then returns to the rear where, once more, he can observe all before him.
I was taught this method of leading and managing by Nephi Carter. I have seen it work time and time over. Nephi also used to say, "train your replacement, Steve." In other words, train all those around you to take your place; in doing so, you will guarantee progress. I always felt that if I were at work or not, the team would still achieve their goals and care for each other. Nephi thought likewise. People want to achieve and be successful; however, sometimes, they don't believe it is possible. Or they are just not capable. Having caring, solid people all around them to show them the way, and a caring leader at the rear, like the wolves, ensures success every time.
To see more of my work, please check out the following articles. Please feel free to share, give me a clap, and follow me for up-to-date writings.
