From Follower to Self-Leader

For the majority of my life, I’ve always been a follower. I was too fearful of being the leader and being someone that people looked to for guidance and encouragement. I never viewed myself that way, so I became a part of the herd. 

Becoming a follower is not something that I had intended. But with being neurodivergent, it’s difficult to get yourself up to a lead status. There are many inner workings in our brains. It can be difficult to process everything around us with ease. 

I’m certainly not trying to say that neurodivergent people can’t be leaders, because we can. I’m speaking from my point of view. I have faced struggles just to get someone to listen to me. I chalked it up to doubts like, “I’m not good enough to be a leader.” Thoughts like, “I’m not worthy to become one,” bubbled around my mind.

I don’t like being labeled a follower either. But, I’ve just grown so used to being in the back with my head down. I have a mind of my own. I seek independence, and the freedom to be myself. I just never had the courage to stand up, be tall, and prove my worth. 

But I have a new lease on life, and a better attitude towards personal growth.  I’m not trying to imply that I want to be a leader because I honestly wouldn’t want to.  But a leader for myself—absolutely. 

 I no longer try to mimic others to fit in.  I no longer place myself last on any list.  I no longer choose to follow everybody else. I want to be authentic. I want to be seen, and heard. I want to continue fighting for the voice that’s been silenced in my soul for years.

Neurodivergent people deserve to be powerful figures in society.  We don’t always follow behind everybody else. Sometimes we do use our voice and make a significant impact.  In fact, we are currently fighting the system every day.  So, yes, we are in fact leaders in our own right. 

We are beautifully unique and have just as much strength as everyone else. We just tend to hide behind the scenes, following our own rhythms, and that’s okay.  I’d rather be hum my own tune than trying to be someone I’m not. 

“You don’t have to lead the crowd to be a leader. Sometimes, leading yourself is the most courageous thing you can do.” 

Unknown