Transforming into a Leader

Hey Everybody,

A true leader is one that can transform a follower to a leader. As we approach the leadership conference, it is imperative to realize that we cannot avoid being leaders in our lives. What we can avoid, however, is being effective leaders. I doubt if there is anyone who aims to become a mediocre, let alone, poor leader.

The internet is full of articles that define the traits of a good leader. Just type “leadership traits” on any search engine and you will be showered with a plethora of well- articulated articles that define how a leader ought to behave. It therefore seems that we have no reason to have unskilled leaders, at least not in a technologically-savvy world. Lack of information is not an excuse.

So what is the missing link? Given that leaders thrive under the same conditions, with no competition amongst them, what differentiate a fruit-bearing leader from a barren leader?

I believe the ability to transform a leader’s followers into empathic individuals is what separates a successful leader from the rest.  This task has been accomplished once the followers are able to experience the burden and eagerness of the leader, in turn, becoming leaders themselves. As we prepare ourselves for the conference, let us prepare in a way that will enable us to become transformers. Transforming is very closely and strongly intertwined with the application of what we learn. So, regardless of what we acquire from the conference—from the do’s and don’ts to short and long-term goals—let us make it our sole desire to make them an integral part of our lives.

- Geoffrey Rugarabamu, Manhattanville College Leadership Conference Committee