Bob Marley wrote a song titled One Love, and one of the lines is… “Let’s get together and feel alright.” Does anyone remember that? Sorry if that is stuck in your head now… Anyway, too often in leadership, that is what is wanted. Leaders are saying, “Let’s get together and say that you agree, and we will all feel alright.” Have you ever been in that conversation? Well, I call that… Go along to get along mentality.

Go along to get along… I found this definition on the internet of this idiom… To conform to general expectations so as not to disrupt or endanger one’s sense of security or belonging or to agree with others or do what they want in order to preserve harmony. Is it the right thing to do? Is it ok for you to speak up if you disagree? Will you be labeled as one of those who does not fall in line? You look around the table, and everyone is in agreement, knowing that half of them are thinking the same thing that you are but unwilling to be “that person.”

I think it boils down to the security or insecurity of the leader and of you as well. Why do we live in a society where we must put our values aside to “keep the peace?” Now, I’ll be the first to say that we should major on the majors and let the minor stuff stay minor. I also believe that we must choose our battles, per se. However, when the line in the sand has to be put on notice… This is where insecure leaders are not welcoming of others’ questions or suggestions and forbid a disagreement, for they feel they are always correct in their own infinite wisdom. They want everyone to go along… Leadership that carries this mantle only wants the “yes” people.

In his first inaugural address, Thomas Jefferson stated, “Every difference of opinion was not and could not be a difference of principle.” But guess what… That is exactly what happens when we set aside our voice when we are asked or sometimes told… go along. Finding value in what we know instead of what we think carries greater leadership responsibility. Truth becomes irrelevant when someone’s personal agenda takes priority. But yet… this is said, “I need you all to go along with this…” Strong, secure leaders put what is right ahead of their personal feelings for the greater good. It takes courage.

I acknowledge that there might be a person and charge that makes the final decision, and that is their prerogative. But when they limit the thoughts of others, they steal what could be. I’m pretty sure I’m not the “go along to get along” person. Are you? There will always be a reason why or why not, and you are the only one who can answer…

Go be a great educator and leader today… Our future needs it…