Someone who thinks they are leading, but has no one following them, is only taking a walk.

SGM Matthew Quick — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 00:15:02 -0500

What does this mean to you?

How are you ensuring you are a leader worth following? Are you just 'taking a walk'?

REMINDER: Every once in a while, take a look over your shoulder...are you being followed?

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Dec 16 at 2013 12:32 AM

CW2 Joseph Evans — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 00:32:27 -0500

I'd rather be taking a walk than standing behind them beating them with a stick, or regs or UCMJ. Soldiers follow the lead of someone they respect, if you aren't walking the right walk, perhaps you shouldn't be followed.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 12:56 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 00:56:51 -0500

I get what this quote is saying, and I agree whole heartedly...be a leader that is worth following. Now let me play devil's advocate, what if you are being a leader and the course of action you have taken is the right course (morally, ethically) and you're the one who's doing the right thing? I can remember a time where I as an NCO "ratted" on a drug dealer when we were down range.  It got a few people in trouble, and ruffled quite a few feathers.  I heard fellow NCO's telling soldiers to "be careful what you say to SGT Barin, it might get you in trouble" and soldiers going out of their way to avoid me.  Sometimes making the right choice and being a real leader isn't popular, and it can leave you "walking alone" until people pull their heads out of their 4th point of contact.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 16 at 2013 1:11 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 01:11:13 -0500

I think too many are looking for who is following but run into their own walls. Leadership can be lonely at times.