As a Training Specialist (my real life job title for those keeping score), I quite often look for material that I can use within our many different sessions and workshops. And being the consummate story teller, I usually look to visual media and videos to help break up the monotony of my voice.

While looking to find a video to use in a recent leadership workshop, I discovered this quick clip from Derek Sivers. Given at a TED convention last year, Derek discusses what he believes it takes to start a movement and after watching it, thought that it best described how I perceived my place within the circle of leadership:

So where do I fit in you ask? Here’s a clue:

The biggest lesson, if you noticed — did you catch it — is that leadership is over-glorified, that, yes, it was the shirtless guy was first, and he’ll get all the credit, but it was really the first follower that transformed the lone nut into a leader. So, as we’re told that we should all be leaders, that would be really ineffective.

That’s right – I consider myself the first follower.

I’ve never really been the get up and go type. True, I might get a little antsy or try to empower others to get a move on, but I’m always the guy you see in the background providing support to those in front. I’m a strong believer in the concept of leadership by team and feel this best represents that concept. So again, for those keeping score, I’m the guy you want to embrace when you have a desire to get something to go viral.

But don’t let me lead the discussion, what do you think?