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We've all heard the endless accolades for the gung-ho types who are the first to volunteer and lead the world in various capacities. There's no denying that a good leader can make or break any workplace, classroom, or group dynamic, no matter how golden or altruistic the project's endeavors may be. What isn't highly touted is the notion that leadership takes on many different forms, especially during your college career. White it's true one bona fide type is the trumpeting loud and proud "follow me, I know best" type, there are other equally and sometimes even more valuable methods to lead the masses. Below is an examination of other methodologies, and tips on how to blaze a trail and stay sane as you make your way through the academic frontier.
During the schooling process, there will be an endless stream of opportunities to lead. No matter how comfortable you are at the head of the pack, here's a word to the wise - don't always take the reins. You can exercise even more influence and learn a bundle by stepping back and observing the leadership skills of others. Every time you're in a group situation, it's a chance to learn something new about yourself. By always charging ahead, you hone in on specific skills, but may be missing the art of subtlety, listening skills, persuasiveness, and maintaining an open mind. In the classroom situation, professors are your best source of leadership inspiration, but your peers are no less qualified to teach you how to lead as well.
Take the time to partner up with someone whom you initially don't have faith in. If you find yourself engrossed in a group-oriented project where an individual you dislike volunteers to lead, let them. Open your mind and realize that those negative reactions you have toward that individual could just be projections of your own insecurities. Remember that even if your leader isn't making choices you completely agree with, they are teaching you a lesson. Notice the actions that provoke an emotional response within you especially if what comes up feels negative. Then take a deep dive into yourself and consider if perhaps you, too, are guilty of the same behaviors. The absolute best way to grow is by observing what we admire and detest in others who lead, and, in tandem, can recognize the same traits in ourselves.
Here's another suggestion to polish your leadership mojo - ask for feedback. Whether you're leading a mini-discussion in a classroom and put in charge of a massive undertaking, set the scene immediately that you're open to specific critique of your leadership by all involved. It's a very daring move, and you have to be prepared for the good and the bad, but if you're sincere about wanting to be the best you can be, this is the path to success. It will impress your group that you truly want to hear them, and it will give you a rare chance to really find out how others view your skills. This will also allow you the opportunity to begin the difficult task of categorizing your feedback; while some will be invaluable and will truly nail your inadequacies and talents, others will be that dreaded projection, and will bear no direct reflection on you. Start to sniff out the difference; it will do volumes in helping you focus on the true issues, and dismiss the catty negativities. Trust your instincts - if you're getting the same messages from multiple people, or if something stings severely and instantly makes you defensive, chances are that's an area of your leadership traits that needs to be examined.
In the college arena, and in life itself, problem solving and leadership go hand-in-hand. If you accept the notion that leadership involves both rising to the top and falling back to listen and ponder, you're already putting fabulous problem solving skills in action. Both expertise are all about good judgment, a balance of confidence and humility, knowledge and research about your topic, and an altruistic attitude that focuses on the benefit of all involved. Polishing these kinds of skills during your college career will make you an irresistible employee with the potential for longevity in any field you choose. The world needs more open-minded, compassionate, and knowledgeable leaders. Start building your road to success today.
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