We tend to focus only on directive leadership roles when we are thinking about engaging our Scouts in leadership, but every Scout can (and ought to) be a leader. Here’s some thoughts you can use to encourage all of your Scouts to engage in leadership.
Leadership is much more than standing in front of the group giving directions.
There are four ways every Scout is a leader
First you lead yourself, second you follow cooperatively, third you help your fellow Scouts, and fourth you shape the directions and plans for your patrol and troop. You may be all four kinds of leader at once, other times you may be focused on a particular way of leading, all four ways are equally important.
1. Self-Leadership
Self-leadership means being prepared in whatever you do, having personal initiative and character, taking care of yourself spiritually, mentally and physically.
If you are prepared, you’ll be able to participate actively and help your fellow Scouts. Being prepared means you don’t have to depend on others so that others or can depend on you.
Examples of self-leadership:
2. Cooperative Leadership
Being cooperative means supporting each other in working towards a goal.
Examples of cooperative leadership:
3. Supportive Leadership
Supportive leaders actively assist their leaders and fellow Scouts by being kind, friendly and helpful at every opportunity.
Examples of supportive leadership:
4. Directive Leadership
Once you can lead yourself, follow cooperatively and help your fellow Scouts you are ready to guide your patrol and troop. You will help direct them during activities and make plans to help your troop and patrol.
Examples of directive leadership: