terraforming

I suppose it comes from having a bit of military background, seeing the spectrum of leadership 'position' as multiple instances of the same basic principle: we follow an example we trust, and in doing so provide such an example to those who observe us. Our group spoke at length on the idea that every leader must also be a follower before they can hope to effectively take charge. I would add that they demonstrate continued willingness to follow and learn, even to the point of eagerness, if they truly desire to set a proper example for those they lead. 

Every sergeant in the chain of command follows the example of the rank above him and passes that on to those below. From a division level command sergeant major down to a young team level corporal, every man has a similar responsibility: follow orders and ensure that your mission is completed. It is the same in every moderate to large sized group I've ever served. The manner in which any member of a team respects and responds to those in charge is reflected in the way their subordinates will treat them. A backbiting, corner cutting middle manager will inevitably find his employees copying those same tactics behind his back. 

In the end, this is not about avoiding bad behavior so that those who follow you won't bite you in the professional rear end. All that vain self-protection amounts to digging ditches in the yard and calling it a moat. Rather, the goal should always be to seek out examples that inspire us to grow, whether that be in holiness or in skill, and then to emulate that inspiration. Doing so helps shape the interpersonal landscape around us so much more than digging a ditch; it moves mountains.