Leader

Written by Petra M. Rodriguez

Where does Leadership begin? Leadership usually starts at home, as we learn how to make productive and wise decisions from our parents. When parents lead by example, it teaches us to be strong leaders. Leaders are charged with the task of not only holding everyone on their team accountable, but holding themselves accountable as well, thereby setting an example of what they expect from the team.  There’s hardly anything worse for company morale than leaders who practice the “do as I say, not as I do” philosophy. When this happens, you can almost see the loss of enthusiasm and goodwill amongst the team. It’s like watching air go out of a big balloon. This allows the opportunity for much disappointment and let down. 

As a leader, your team looks to you for guidance and strength. Part of being a great leader is to inspire the people around you, inspiring them to push themselves and return the team to greatness! To do this you must show them the way first by setting a good example.  If you make a new rule, you must follow it first, then your team will follow it too.  

We are all leaders whether we think so or not. Family, friends, and people all around us are looking for someone who will inspire them to do more and strive to be better. We can all set good examples and not just do the “same old-same old” routine.  Be a positive example they can follow.  Sometimes, to be that person, it takes courage. With a positive attitude and a genuine heart, we can help build people up on our team. Eventually seeing them become team builders themselves, leading people to excel everyday!

“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” John Maxwell

“A leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit.” Arnold H. Glasow

“Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.” John Maxwell

REFLECTION

Be courageous -It has been said that courage is not the lack of fear, but the ability to face fear, and overcome it.

Be an optimist – Everyone can choose to be an optimist or a pessimist; to see the best in people or the worst in any moment.

Know what you believe in and live it! – An effective leader clearly understands their core value, objectives, and important beliefs. They live their convictions and lead with integrity to build successful people.