Lead Follow Or Get Out Of The Way Quote
The quote “Lead, follow, or get out of the way” is a well-known phrase and philosophy that has been around for centuries. It is often attributed to General George S. Patton, a famous American military leader who used this phrase to motivate his troops during World War II. However, the origins of this quote can be traced back much further than that.
The Origins of the Quote
The phrase “Lead, follow, or get out of the way” can be traced back to the 1700s, where it was used in various forms. One of the earliest recorded instances of this quote was by Thomas Paine, an English-American political activist, who wrote in 1776: “Lead, follow, or get out of the way; but do something!” This quote was meant to inspire people to take action and do something to help their country during the American Revolution.
Another possible origin of this quote is from a speech given by the African-American abolitionist and women’s rights activist, Harriet Tubman. In her speech, she said: “Either you’re the one causing the problem, you’re the one who’s going to solve the problem, or you’re going to get out of the way and let somebody else solve the problem.”
The Meaning of the Quote
The meaning of the quote is quite simple - it is a call to action. It is a reminder that in any situation, you have three choices: you can either take charge and lead, follow someone else’s lead, or step aside and let someone else take the lead. The quote is often used in a military context, but it can be applied to any situation where action is required.
If you are a leader, the quote is a reminder that you need to take charge and lead by example. You need to show your team what needs to be done and how to do it. You need to be confident, decisive, and willing to take risks. If you are a follower, the quote is a reminder that you need to support your leader and work together as a team. You need to be willing to follow instructions and trust that your leader knows what they are doing. If you are neither a leader nor a follower, the quote is a reminder that you need to get out of the way and let those who are willing to take action do so.
Applying the Quote in Business
The quote “Lead, follow, or get out of the way” can be applied in many different contexts, including business. In a business setting, the quote can be used to motivate employees and encourage them to take action. It can remind employees that they have a choice - they can either take charge and lead, follow someone else’s lead, or step aside and let someone else take the lead.
For business owners and managers, the quote is a reminder that they need to be strong leaders who are willing to take charge and make tough decisions. They need to be confident, decisive, and willing to take risks. They also need to be able to recognize when someone else has a better idea and be willing to follow their lead.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quote “Lead, follow, or get out of the way” is a powerful reminder that we all have a choice when it comes to taking action. It is a call to action that can be applied in many different contexts, including business, politics, and everyday life. Whether you choose to lead, follow, or step aside, the important thing is that you take action and do something to make a difference.
