From the day we’re born we generally fall into one of two categories; the leader or the follower. As a baby you follow what your guardians, siblings and other little friends do and say; it’s all a part of learning and growing. Then, one day you’re in first grade and your teacher tells you that you’re the line leader for the day and all of a sudden you’re on top of the world. Not everyone is cut out to be the line leader of the real world, but if you are, you better hope you can positively reach out to the rest of the class following behind you. I think that is one of the hardest parts of becoming a leader; control. Taking whatever “power” you have and making it a positive influence on those you’re impressing upon. Power and money seem to have taken over our world, our minds. Everyone seems to be looking out for themselves, which, to some extent, is understandable. But as a leader you need to look at the bigger picture, too.
“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”
-Nelson Mandela
I love this quote. I think Nelson Mandela was trying to impress that leading doesn’t always mean being first, being number one or being completely in charge. As a leader you should know when you need to take charge and when you need to let others try and learn on their own.
To close, don’t be afraid to take the lead on your own life. You’re your own person. Don’t let others dictate how you feel, how you think, how you dress, who you love, anything. Life is too short to go to bed at night thinking, what if? Take control of your own life, be responsible for yourself, and learn from the mistakes you make.
- Regina (GiGi) Wickline, Manhattanville College Leadership Conference Committee Member
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