Take a look at this incredible video by Derek Sivers, founder of CD Baby:

I particularly like the emphasis on the first follower–why being the first follower takes courage and should be embraced as an equal to the leader.  

This is also a great visual illustration of how the original idea morphs into something new as followers add their own ideas.  For more take-aways on this video, see the author's blog where he has the transcription of the narrative and some 300+ comments. 

Who are your first followers and how are you embracing them?

My thanks to Sharon Shoemaker of Fast Break Consulting for bringing the video to my attention.  Sharon and I met after I interviewed Patricia Ryan Madson for this blog.