You Were Born Either A Leader Or A Follower. The One You Pick Says It All.

From the moment we enter the world, we are placed into systems—families, schools, cultures, workplaces—that subtly and not-so-subtly shape how we see ourselves. Somewhere along the way, a powerful idea takes root: some people lead, and some people follow. This belief becomes a quiet force guiding decisions, ambitions, fears, and identities. But is leadership something you are born with, or is it something you choose? And if the choice is yours, what does that say about who you are?

The statement “You were born either a leader or a follower. The one you pick says it all” is provocative for a reason. It challenges comfort, confronts passivity, and forces self-examination. It isn’t really about destiny at birth—it’s about agency. It’s about whether you live life on default settings or take responsibility for shaping your direction.

This essay explores the meaning behind leadership and followership, dismantles common myths, and ultimately argues that while circumstances influence us, the identity we adopt—and reinforce through our actions—is a choice. And that choice reveals everything about how we face life.

The Myth of Being “Born” One Way

The idea that people are born leaders or followers is seductive because it removes responsibility. If leadership is innate, then those who don’t lead are excused. If followership is destiny, then ambition becomes optional.

But human development tells a different story.

No baby is born leading. No infant emerges with a vision statement, a strategic plan, or the confidence to command others. What we are born with are temperaments, strengths, fears, and potential. Leadership is not a gene—it is a pattern of behavior shaped by environment, encouragement, discipline, and choice.

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