Following a leader is supposed to give you bearings, maybe even a breadcrumb trail to make the way easier. But hug their bumper too tightly and you inherit their hazards. An unexpected swerve, a sudden brake, and you’re no longer charting your own path—you’re just reacting.
And reactions made too late often end in ditches, bruised egos, or worse. Keep enough distance to see the horizon, not just their taillights.
That way, you’re still learning from their lead without becoming collateral to their mistakes.
Stay Positive & Remember: It’s The Mistakes They’ve Made That Make Them Great Leaders
Garth Beyer is a Certified Cicerone®, Product Marketer, owner of Garth's Brew Bar and a Madison-based freelance writer.
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