Tremendous Tracey
Alienated or Apostate? When Followership Turns to Firebombing
But before jumping to conclusions, leaders must pause and ask: Has this follower truly turned? Or have they simply lost that loving feeling? Just like in marriage counseling, where there's been alienation of affection, sometimes the real issue isn't betrayal—it's burnout, disengagement, and disappointment that can be restored.
Raising Cain or Ready, Willing, and Abel?
As a lifelong student of leadership—and, more importantly, followership—I spend my days dissecting the complex, colorful, and sometimes combustible spectrum of follower behaviors. Most followers want to contribute, learn, and grow. Some struggle with alignment but still carry good intent.
But then there's a rare and toxic breed that carries something far more dangerous: a dark spirit wrapped in a smile.
These are the maliciously compliant followers.
And you better pray you don't have one in your organization.
The Four Most Important Words a Leader Needs to Hear
If you want a better leader, be a better follower. Leadership is not about standing alone at the top—it's about those who stand with you. Most leaders are subjected to relentless criticism, second-guessing, stress, political maneuvering, and even betrayals from their own ranks. The greatest gift you can give your leader is to tell them, "You have my support"—and then back it up with action. And if you can't do that, find a leader you can support wholeheartedly.
