I Like Your Shoes, Can I Follow You?
Posted on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 by Shawn HilemanFollowing the leader has always been a simple concept. We all need a leader, but sometimes it takes the one that is trying to follow to become the leader. I started writing about design and was struggling with making my point through academic backings. But who’s opinion is it to say this is what is great, or this? I understand that certain people have an influence on the certain worlds more than others, like John Szarkowski did for photography and a hundred other examples in theory, but ideas that are never said have no impact anyways. Get something on paper and don’t be afraid of spouting out ideas. Anybody can learn a program or cut sheets of paper but being able to creatively think is paramount.
That is how true leaders are made, the ones that you want to be around. Not by stepping on toes.











Frank Roche
Jun 4th, 2008
There’s no substitute for creativity. Anyone can churn out the ordinary, but ordinary isn’t good enough. As you say, being able to think creatively is paramount. Powerful words..and the best title ever.
rick
Jun 6th, 2008
Thoughful and clever post Shawn. Makes me wonder how my people perceive me as a leader.
seantheshoeguy
Sep 8th, 2008
I think follows through to all parts of life. As a father of 4 and someone trying to run his own business (I sell Dansko shoes), I find myself watching people watch me sometimes…