The Epileptic Entrepreneur™

In any business environment, leadership plays a critical role in shaping the direction of a team or organization. A strong leader is someone who anticipates what’s next, who has the foresight and ability to create a roadmap for success, and whose actions motivate those around them. Conversely, a follower is someone who waits for instructions, often lacking the initiative to push the business or their own personal development forward. The stark contrast between the two mindsets—one proactive, the other passive—can have a significant impact on the performance of both individuals and the larger team.

The Role of a Team Leader: Focused on What’s Next

A team leader is not simply a person who manages tasks or people; they are visionaries who guide others toward a collective goal, while ensuring that everyone is aligned and motivated to work together for the business’s greater success. A true leader is always thinking ahead. They do not sit idle or wait for the next instruction from superiors or subordinates. Instead, they focus on what’s next, constantly evaluating the environment, forecasting challenges, and coming up with strategies to overcome potential obstacles.

Leaders are proactive. They understand that the only way to move forward is to anticipate what will come and be prepared for it. By always thinking ahead, they can see opportunities before others do and can take calculated risks to keep their teams moving in the right direction. The proactive mindset means the leader is constantly asking questions such as:

• What is the next phase of our project?
• What challenges might arise in the future?
• How can I inspire my team to exceed their potential?

These questions drive them to innovate, improve processes, and find solutions. They are never satisfied with the status quo. A leader understands that every moment presents an opportunity to move the business forward, and they continuously seek out ways to do so. Moreover, a strong leader cultivates a sense of ownership and responsibility within their team, making each member feel invested in the company’s future. This is done by empowering the team to think critically, act independently, and contribute meaningfully.

A team leader’s focus on what’s next extends beyond just day-to-day operations. They are continuously envisioning the long-term direction of the company, developing strategies that will allow the team to thrive well into the future. Their ability to engage in forward-thinking leadership makes them invaluable to the business, as they guide the company through both growth and inevitable changes in the market. For a team leader, being stagnant is not an option. They strive for continuous improvement, always searching for new ways to evolve, both personally and professionally.

The Role of a Follower: Waiting for Instructions

In contrast to a leader’s proactive attitude, a follower typically adopts a more passive role. A follower waits for instructions from a leader, rarely taking initiative or stepping out of their comfort zone. Rather than thinking about the future or being concerned with what might come next, followers tend to focus on the present moment, often to the point where they lack the foresight needed to anticipate future needs or challenges.

A follower might be content to remain in a state of compliance, waiting for their leader to tell them what to do. They might follow directions without asking questions, without seeking understanding, or offering any insights of their own. Instead of speaking up when they see room for improvement or voicing their opinions, followers are often too focused on what others think about them to take action. This passive behavior stems from a lack of self-confidence or a fear of confrontation. For a follower, what others think becomes paramount. The fear of judgment or criticism keeps them from asserting their own ideas or suggesting alternative ways of approaching a problem.

This dynamic can be detrimental to both the follower and the business. A team cannot function effectively if everyone is waiting for instructions and no one is willing to take responsibility for making decisions. The organization may lack the innovation and drive necessary for growth if individuals are constantly hesitating or deferring to others. Furthermore, the lack of independent thought or action from a follower can slow down the momentum of the team. Without a proactive mindset, they may be unable to contribute meaningfully to the company’s progress.

The Impact of Focus on What Others Think

A significant factor that differentiates a follower from a leader is their mindset. A follower is often preoccupied with external validation—what others think of them, how their actions will be perceived by their peers, and whether or not they will receive approval from their superiors. This focus on others’ opinions can become paralyzing, as it keeps them from speaking out, taking risks, or challenging the status quo. Instead of contributing ideas to move the business forward, they remain quiet, internally questioning whether their thoughts are valid or if they will be judged for speaking up.

This excessive concern with others’ thoughts comes from a place of insecurity. Followers may feel that their input is not valued or that their contributions are not important enough to be heard. They may fear failure or believe that they lack the expertise to make decisions. As a result, they prefer to sit back and wait for someone else to take the lead, which in turn reinforces the idea that they are not capable of leading themselves or taking initiative.

Over time, this behavior can cause followers to miss out on personal growth and development opportunities. When one constantly defers to others, they miss the chance to learn new skills, develop problem-solving abilities, and demonstrate leadership qualities. In business, this stagnation is problematic. Organizations rely on individuals who are willing to think for themselves, make decisions, and take ownership of tasks. When everyone is waiting for instructions, the potential of the team remains untapped.

The Role of Communication in Leadership and Followership

Communication is a cornerstone of leadership. A leader who focuses on what’s next communicates with clarity, sharing their vision, goals, and expectations with their team. They ask for input from others, creating an open dialogue where ideas are freely exchanged. Leaders foster an environment where it’s safe to speak up and contribute. They understand that feedback from team members is crucial in refining plans, addressing concerns, and making adjustments when necessary. Open communication builds trust and accountability, allowing the team to collaborate effectively and stay focused on the bigger picture.

On the other hand, followers often struggle with communication. Because they are focused on how they are perceived, they are less likely to engage in meaningful conversations with their leader or team. Followers might hesitate to share their thoughts, either because they fear rejection or because they lack confidence in their ideas. This lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings, missed opportunities, and a general sense of disengagement from the team’s goals. When a follower is unwilling to speak up, they contribute to a communication breakdown that could negatively affect the entire organization.

Moving From Follower to Leader

The transition from a follower to a leader is not always easy, but it is possible. The first step is shifting the mindset from passive to active. Followers need to recognize the value of their input and understand that their ideas and opinions matter. Developing confidence and the willingness to take calculated risks is critical in making this transition.

By focusing on what’s next, followers can start anticipating needs and taking initiative. They should begin speaking up in meetings, offering suggestions, and sharing their vision for the team or business. This shift in behavior can help them take ownership of their role and contribute more meaningfully to the company’s success. Over time, they will develop the skills and mindset necessary to assume leadership responsibilities and guide others toward shared goals.

Conclusion

The difference between a team leader who focuses on what’s next and a follower who waits for instructions is profound. Leaders are proactive, forward-thinking, and inspire action, while followers tend to be reactive, waiting for direction and validation. A business can thrive when each member of the team is empowered to take initiative, communicate openly, and think critically. For followers, the opportunity for growth lies in recognizing their own potential and making the transition from passivity to proactivity. By focusing on what’s next, both leaders and followers can contribute to the long-term success and resilience of the organization.