How do you know whether to lead, follow, or step aside?
How do you know whether to lead, follow, or step aside? How to choose the right role without slowing things down Big Picture Framing Knowing when to lead, follow, or get out of the way is a decision you make dozens of times a week—in meetings, projects, and even family conversations. Instead of defaulting to “I should take charge” or “I’ll just stay quiet,” you can treat it like a quick, practical scan: What does this moment need most—direction, support, or space? In what follows, you’ll get a clear framework, real examples, and some simple questions to help you play the right role at the right time, while building trust and momentum along the way. The Three Roles in Any Situation In almost every collaborative situation you have three options: Lead – set direction and make decisions Follow – support the direction and execute Get out of the way – step aside so others can move faster Think of a highway: Sometimes you’re the driver (lead). Sometime...