The Illusion of Choice: Leading, Following, and Letting Things Be.

Daily writing prompt

Do you see yourself as a leader?

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In today’s society, what does it truly mean to lead? It seems money has become the biggest motivator. If I had it, I’m sure I could lead horses to water—but I wouldn’t make them drink. I lead when necessary, and follow when it isn’t. Yet I find myself in limbo, wondering what it is I’d even be leading. Lead who? These bland questions make me wonder if the powerful are collecting data on more than just our actions. But who am I kidding? They collect everything—on and off the internet. What did you buy today? They already know. What was in it? They know the chemical properties and how they affect your body.

I’ll lead. I’ll follow. Whatever I choose, it’s my choice. And that’s the illusion—choice. Ask yourself, what choices have you made recently? Now ask, why did you make them? If your answer is anything less than a positive emotional response, why did you make that choice? If your moral compass doesn’t point toward something good, then maybe it wasn’t your decision—it was influenced by something else.

Why must anyone lead? Why must anyone follow? Why can’t people be taught to make responsible choices, based on emotional intelligence? Sure, some jobs require specialized training. Some professions demand ingenuity, strength, or bravery. But what brings out the best in you?

For me, it’s simple—being myself. That’s why I do what I do. Being true to who I am defines my choices. I don’t let others step up when it’s my turn to swing the bat. I don’t substitute someone to run for me after I’ve hit the ball. I don’t put on my shoe and let someone else tie it for me.

So why would I allow others to shape my world? I think about leading—often. I think about following—often. But sometimes, neither is needed. Sometimes we just need to let things be. Even when change feels necessary, sometimes it isn’t.

A later insight – I found myself reading through other people’s content, and it reminded me of an old country song by John Montgomery, “Life’s a Dance”. To sum it all up: Sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow; the key is to keep learning as you go.