Leadership goes beyond the scope of authority and recognition. Leadership to me means developing individuals around me and helping others reach their full potential. It is not always about telling others what to do, but rather about standing alongside them leading the charge and not seeing those I am leading as any lesser than me. Leadership is about recognizing when to lead, but also when you need to be a follower. As a leader in whatever sector I am being a leader, my responsibility is to equip others with the necessary tools and strategies to not only move forward the success of that organization or group, but also the lives of the individuals I am leading.
Throughout my life, I have been involved in some type of leadership role(s). Some of my first leadership roles and qualities I learned through playing sports such as basketball. While playing I thought a strong leader was one who could do it all and have to put the team on my back. However, I quickly learned that being a great leader was being able to recognize each individual strengths and areas of growth and being able to utilize that as an asset. As my leadership responsibilities and experience continue to grow each role, I have had progressed to build off of one another. Having a strong understanding of why has fueled my passion and ability to be my best self.
Over the course of my leadership roles, my understanding of leadership has evolved through self-reflection, receiving constructive criticism, and my ability to ask engaging questions. I have learned valuable traits that make me an effective leader, such as the ability to take initiative. Having the capability to see something that is wrong or can be improved and taking it upon oneself. Moreover, being able to find a healthy balance between leadership roles, and school/work, family, friends, and personal well-being is a very effective tool. Another key characteristic is the ability to adapt and adjust to new surroundings and environments. It is important to know when to lead from the front and when to allow others to take charge.