Book excerpt: Introducing the paradox: the greatest leaders are often recognized for their characteristics and competencies. Most leaders who are considered great have their name in the headlines. Neither characteristics and competencies nor media attention makes you a great leader. We have seen many leaders with the right characteristics, the right competencies, and the attention of the press who have fallen from the pedestals they were placed on. The real key to a sustainable legacy of great leadership is not only about how well you lead, it is about how well you follow. This is the paradox of great leadership: who, what, and how you follow will determine your leadership legacy. Whether you are a CEO or frontline employee, it is critical to understand how this paradox will impact your personal leadership journey.