In the midst of a great conversation today, the idea of falling in line really tugged at my heart. Let me explain.
I had a great career in Higher Ed that spanned over a decade and covered most of the states in the US. I felt successful. I had great jobs, worked for a lot of people I liked, was rewarded with promotions, etc. It was great. And it wasn’t.
Here’s why it wasn’t.
I fell in line.
We hear similar stories when we are growing up: go to school, get a job, buy a car and house. Work hard, get ahead. Fall in line.
Falling in line often meant do what your boss tells you to do, and most of the time that’s fine. But when it leads to mediocrity and the status quo, when it crushes your drive to innovate, when it forces you to keep your thoughts to yourself, you lose.
Most of my career, I was a part of the solution, and I was part of the success. But when I think about the times where I simply fell in line, I failed. I was gripped by fear. I kept quiet. I just did what I had to do.
Never again.
Be a part of something great. Be a part of a team where you are valued and where you are supported. And if you’re a leader, value and support your people. Speak up and encourage your people to speak up. Ask questions and listen.
And never, ever just fall in line.