Leader - one who comes up with ideas, policies, and enrolls others in their vision. Follower - one who goes along with the majority or attaches themselves to others beliefs or ideas.
I have often struggled with whether I am a true leader or a follower. At times I have found myself weaving in and out of both. In the past I have found when I am confident in a situation (teaching fitness classes, paddleboard classes, personal training) I have been a leader. When I am unsure of the situation or subject matter, I have found that I will back out of taking a leadership role.
Recently, I have been involved in several leadership trainings. These trainings have taught me that true leadership is not about the actual subject matter. True leadership is about the ability to guide or navigate others who may have a different or, an even better skill set than you, effectively through whatever situation is occurring. Being a true leader is about bringing out the best in others and leaning into others strengths and bringing out their best qualities to accomplish an end goal.
As I sit here writing this it is “International Women's Day”. Who do you think of when you think of a leader? Do you think of men? Do you think of women? Do you think of young adults? Leaders come in all shapes, sizes, genders and races. Leaders are not just limited to being in charge of corporations, countries, boards, cities etc. This next sentence is important...Leaders are also those who are in charge of our own households, neighborhoods, social groups etc. Leaders are who shape us now and shape generations to come!
Again, are you a leader or a follower. If you are a leader how do you lead? Do you lead with integrity, inclusiveness, empathy and love? Or do you lead for the glory just to say you are a leader for your own gain. I implore you to take a moment and ask yourself if you are a leader, if you have ever thought that you should be a leader, because you think you may have the qualities of a leader? The world, our communities, our families need more leaders, leaders who are empathetic, caring, inclusive, authentic and lift others up! Leaders who stand for good! If you are that type of leader and like me are weaving through leading and following, I encourage you to begin leading today! Too often we take the easy way out, go with the status quo and just follow because we are unsure, unconfident, or feel unworthy. We are all worthy of leading if we do it in a loving, inclusive way and our world sure could use some amazing leaders!
Love,
Robin
Comments