Some say, “Leaders are born”; others believe they are “made.”
While dictionaries and thought leaders offer many definitions, leadership is neither a position to be filled nor a title to be acquired. Rather, it’s a mindset to embrace and a behaviour to demonstrate.
Over time, our perceptions of leadership have shaped the belief that it’s a place to reach — somewhere in front or above, to be brandished and held by any means possible.
But this view often overlooks something critical: the importance of accountability at all levels.
Imagine an army on parade…
I once dreamed of joining one, just to lead and march with a platoon in distinguished formation. (Yuuup! That’s me, leading the parade during my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program).
Being an active parade commander in secondary school and during my National Youth Service remains one of my life’s most thrilling memories. The rhythm of the band, the energy of the crowd, the timely response to calling commands — it all still gives me an adrenaline rush.
But after working closely with a military institution for nearly three years, I discovered that being in the Army meant so much more than marching in parades.
But I digress.
Now, picture that parade again:
The order… the precision… the beauty… the splendour — simply FORMIDABLE.
Yet, this harmony doesn’t occur solely because of the commander out front.
It happens because each soldier commits to their role — their step pace, arm swing, body posture, attention to command, and their responsibility to the collective.
This shared commitment is what empowers the leader to stand strong and direct confidently, through obstacles and toward victory.
This is leadership. And it proves that one can lead, even if not from the front.
Yes, a few may be gifted or groomed to lead from the front. But everyone must learn to lead from wherever they stand — at the centre, on the sidelines, or guarding the rear.
Because without this dependable support, the person out front is merely taking a walk.
With it, the leader moves with confidence, knowing that every person is committed and aligned.
Leadership, then, is a matter of mindset and demonstrated behaviour, not just of hierarchy or title.
So, we must challenge the idea that only the one in front carries the greatest responsibility.
The truth? ANYONE can lead and each one must own their role and take responsibility to make the vision work – whether a personal or a collective vision.
Begin now — to Lead from where you are. Lead exceptionally, unequivocally, with purpose, precision, and passion.
And when, or if, your rank eventually places you in the front, you’ll have mastered two critical skills:
- The discipline of attentiveness — listening for, supporting, and acting on clear frontline calls.
- The wisdom of leadership from behind — trust, collaboration, accuracy, shared focus, and belief in your leader — even when they’re unseen.
These are the hallmarks of a leader who doesn’t just take the stage, but one who embodies the mindset, actions, and behaviours of transgenerational impact.
If we embrace this, not just individually, but as a society, our communities, our systems, and indeed, our nation… will be stronger and better for it.
Cheers,
StephREDD