𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨 𝐏𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

At last night’s Boy Scout meeting, I took the opportunity to just sit back, not as a volunteer with a checklist but in my quiet role as an Adult Reserve. No clipboard, no duties, no expectations.

Like many parents, I could have buried my face in my phone. But after months of writing and reflecting on leadership, I have developed a habit of watching more closely. So instead, I observed: eyes and ears tuned to the quiet dynamics that often go unnoticed. I took in the steady hum of a troop at work; the sounds, the handshakes, the problem-solving, and the subtle stepping up.

Earlier this week, I wrote about stepping up to lead even when you are not the one officially in charge. I saw that idea play out again last night. Parents were huddled over plans for upcoming excursions, including next year’s Philmont trip. Older Scouts worked with brand-new recruits, fresh out of Webelos, guiding them through the rhythm and structure of troop life. Others sat with merit badge counselors, quietly working through requirements one step at a time.

The meeting wrapped up with the usual announcements and Scout prayer. Mixed in were two special moments: the recognition of a new Star Scout and the announcement of a brand-new Eagle. But for me, the real highlight was watching all the so-called “non-leaders” quietly step up to make it all happen.

Have you ever sat back and watched the inner workings of your workplace, a volunteer group, or even your family? Did anything surprise you? And if you spotted a gap, did you step in or wait for someone else to?