Why did John the Baptist not follow Jesus?

John the Baptist was aware the Messiah was coming after him, and His identity was revealed (or rather, confirmed) to him in the Jordan though a [voice from Heaven](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew.3%3A13%E2%80%9317%3B+Mark.1%3A9%E2%80%9311%3B+Luke.3%3A21%E2%80%9323&version=NIV) . And yet, it seems John the Baptist did not became one of Jesus's many disciples, nor was he chosen by Jesus as one of the Twelve (whereas two of John's disciples did follow Jesus, [one being identified as Andrew](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%201:35-1:42&version=NIV)) . It seemed like they had different tasks altogether and could not mix. I am not aware of an instance where they are preaching together or sharing other moments. Why John the Baptist did not "follow" Jesus and became one of his disciples? He remained having disciples of himself, which you would imagine being a "less perfect way" than following Jesus. PD: If needed as per site rules, a Catholic perspective is preferred.