Occasionally we run into situations the person who commands our group, organization, or country (i.e., a leader) makes decisions we do not agree with.

For some of us, these proclamations or approaches to action can be patently incorrect but we need to deal with them.  This raises a question of accountability, do we diligently work to make changes or just buckle under and support the leader?

What is Right?

Our personal decision as to what is right may be valid, however,  based on the relationship and agreed societal or social norms we have some obligations to support our leaders regardless.

It is critical though that this should not equate to the practice of god-like idolization, however, hierarchical groups require boundaries to operate and acceptance of the need for leadership roles is part of this.

There is an important balance between mindless adherence to others’ directions when they are simply role-based.  The exercise of appropriate change influence to promote the best alternative (if not the right one) is needed.

The Leader Says

An early lesson my father taught me many years ago that still sticks in my mind related specifically to follow the leader syndrome.  He asked, “If your leaders jump off a bridge will you follow them”?

Unfortunately, most things are not that simple or straightforward or easy to decipher but the message is clear and has been very relevant to me throughout my life.

There may be times when our leaders should be questioned.  This needs to be in a reasoned and carefully thought out way but you could regret blindly following the leader so giving it some thought is well worth it.