Self Image & Self Worth
Self image and self worth are two critical components that any good leader must understand. Ultimately, having a high self image and self worth of oneself means viewing oneself positively and having confidence in who you are. As someone who is naturally introvert, learning to make myself be heard and gain confidence has been difficult. However, throughout the semester I have found that I have gained more confidence and started viewing my own opinions and self more positively.
Relationships
In order to be an effective leader, it is essential to develop positive relationships with people. I feel like this is one area I thrive in as I tend to get along well with others and develop trusting relationships. Admittedly, getting to know others can be difficult at times as it takes me a while to come out of my shell. However, I have learned that being myself helps to develop these relationships and my relationships thrive as a result. Positive relationships are essential for leaders to have. Without them, there will be a general lack of trust and progress will be hindered. In a world where people spend most of their time behind computer screens, developing genuine authentic relationships with those whom we work with is more important than ever,
Leadership Initiative
Behind every great project is a great leader, and part of becoming a great leader is taking the initiative to lead. Taking the initiative to lead has not always been easy for me. However, I feel I have experienced immense growth in this area. Instead of only leading things I felt I had the necessary skills in, I now am comfortable leading things where no one else volunteered or I am maybe not as experienced. I still believe it is important to lead things where I have the necessary skill set and will take on projects that I have the skills in. However, I now also value going outside my comfort zone and taking initiative on new things. In fact, I take great joy in learning how to lead these new endeavors.
Team Building
Building a positive culture amongst a team is critical in the leadership process. As one would imagine relationships are a critical component to building a good team. In addition, it's equally important to find out what motivates the members of your team in order to help the team reach its desired goal. As a result of the relationships one builds, you can learn about the strengths and weaknesses of each member of the team, and subsequently put them in the greatest position to succeed, This means giving them tasks that they are capable of completing, but it does not mean giving them tasks that are easy though, as a good challenge is very rewarding. Ultimately, it is very important to acknowledge the work each member of the team puts into a project. This can include but is not limited to constructive feedback and celebration of success. This shows that you acknowledge their efforts and are trying to help them grow.
Personal Reflection & Growth Mindset
On the road to achieving individual goals personal reflection plays an essential role. Personal reflection allows one to track their progress on the path to their individual and professional goals. This includes recognizing where adequate progress has been made and also realizing where there is room for improvement. Sometimes it can be hard for me to personally reflect as what I realize is not always what I want. However, I have learned that recognizing where growth is needed is essential in my path to become the person I want to be.
With personal reflection also comes a growth mindset. With a growth mindset an individual recognizes the chance for growth. Even when a project goes seamlessly, there is always something that can be improved. Having a growth mindset is essential to becoming a good leader as all good leaders find something on which they can improve.
With personal reflection also comes a growth mindset. With a growth mindset an individual recognizes the chance for growth. Even when a project goes seamlessly, there is always something that can be improved. Having a growth mindset is essential to becoming a good leader as all good leaders find something on which they can improve.