“Do not compare, do not measure. No other way is like yours. All other ways deceive and tempt you. You must fulfill the best way that is in you.”
— Carl Jung
Comparison is a form of following.
And we all follow someone, or some idea.
And then usually we compare ourselves with the idea we follow – & the other followers of the idea – whether it’s a religious idea, a scientific idea, an athletic idea, an educational idea, a government idea, an artists idea, etc.
We find ourselves comparing ourselves to those we want to fit in with.
We mostly follow, and that’s ok.
So what does it mean to lead?
The answer differs for all people.
To lead is to find your own style; to find what works for you.
Research and learn about the subjects and ideas and people and organizations you are interested in.
Don’t try to imitate them completely – but think about what it is you admire about them, and try applying it to your life.
Choose multiple role models, multiple organizations, multiple ideas, and choose from a place that comes from within you – & not a place of just trying to appear a certain way.
Keep learning & keep changing if you discover more things you are interested in.
It’s ok to change.
It’s ok to not conform.
And it’s ok to lead.
With Ken Thompson 
Ken,
Very insightful post. As a foundation about the behaviors you wish to emulate, I encourage leaders to compare the behaviors to their deeply held values. What behaviors align with your values and therefore add value to your leadership style and behaviors. I also encourage them to compare their current behaviors to their professed values rather than what then next person in doing. Only by comparing our behaviors to our values can anyone ever judge if they are doing the right thing.
S
Chris
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