The question of “leader or follower” always sparks interesting conversations. But what if the answer isn’t so black and white? In my experience, the best professionals are a blend of both.
Following the Example of a Great Leader:
I’m fortunate to work under Mr. Yam, a leader who walks the walk. He embodies the values he preaches, shares the benefits with his team, and truly believes in “we’re all in this together.” This environment fosters a sense of camaraderie and a shared drive for success.
Learning From Past Experiences:
Not all leadership experiences are created equal. I’ve worked under bosses who prioritized personal gain over team success. While frustrating, these experiences taught me valuable lessons about the kind of leader I don’t want to be.
The Power of Learning From Mistakes:
Traditional “guru” models, where you pay for someone else’s knowledge, can be valuable. But I believe the fastest path to growth comes from real-world experiences. Learning from mistakes and adapting strategies is far more effective than passive knowledge acquisition.
Leading by Enabling:
My current role as a Learning & Development Manager has been a revelation. By addressing the questions and concerns of my team, I’ve accelerated my own learning. Leading others pushes me to constantly improve and refine my understanding.
The Lifelong Learner’s Mindset:
Here’s the truth: my 9 years in real estate sales pale in comparison to the growth I’ve experienced in the last 2 years as an L&D manager. Leading and teaching others forces me to constantly learn and evolve.
Following Inspiration:
Yes, I still follow leaders I admire, like Dan Lok. His sales techniques and insights provide valuable frameworks. But the key takeaway is that learning is an ongoing process. Even revisiting the same content can lead to new understandings depending on your perspective.
The Takeaway: A Balance of Leadership and Followership
The most successful professionals are lifelong learners. They embrace opportunities to lead, but also remain open to following the guidance of others. It’s this balance that fuels growth, innovation, and ultimately, success.
Are you a leader, a follower, or a lifelong learner? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Categories: Personal Growth, Leadership
Tags: Learning, Growth Mindset, Mentorship, Real Estate

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