A leader is a person with the ability to assess specific talents within each member of a group. They strategize and motivate, helping to keep the whole on task by creatively utilizing the talents of each member. They value and understand the important contributions made, however big or small, and understand the difficulties of moving forward without the collective effort of all.
What type of leader will you be?
My visit with the amazing John Wooden
A trailblazer, often mistaken as a leader, is someone who has somewhat of a disregard for societal norms and typically thinks outside-the-box. They may also posses a unique gift or talent that shines without the distinct needs of the group.
Are you a parent, coach, teammate, family member or boss? Maybe the next President?
What Type of Leader Will You Be?
We are often blessed with the opportunity to positively impact those around us, however, all too often that impact is lost by our own ego and inability to value the talents and unique gifts brought to the table by others.
University of Arizona Mens Basketball 2010
Questions to ask ourselves:
Do you lead by example, becoming a part of the whole with a positive outlook? Do you contribute to the problems placed before the group, bringing solutions to the table?
Leadership Leads to Love
Do you lay out distinctive goals for each member of your team, clearly stating what needs to be accomplished in order to move forward?
Do you acknowledge the growth or disregard the effort?
Do you allow each member to work on attaining their own specific goals? Do you acknowledge that member when the goal is met?
Do you “…stay the course even when that course is most difficult and the obstacles seem insurmountable.” – John Wooden
Do you exercise self control? “Getting to the top and staying there (somewhat different tasks) present unique and formidable challenges. To do either requires great Self-Control. This characteristic within the Pyramid of Success addresses the importance of controlling yourself in all areas – avoiding temptations, avoiding emotionalism, avoiding peaks and valleys of effort.” -John Wooden
Do you allow each member of the group to remain productive within the group, allowing them to shine within their specific strengths?
Do you encourage sub-leadership? – leadership within specific subareas of a group?
Do you put others down just to elevate yourself? Do you blame others for the faults of the entire group? Do you acknowledge your own mistakes in front of the team?
Do you compare new team members to the talents and accomplishments of those who came before them? Do you allow space and opportunity for self-motivation, reflection and personal growth?
Do you rely only on the trailblazers within a team for success?
Do you only acknowledge one or two people within an entire group? This ALWAYS works against the group as a whole! All people (children and teenagers included) want to feel heard and productive. They want to know their own personal contributions are appreciated.
Do you remain quiet about your desires? Are you uncomfortable having real conversations about moving forward with your team?
I’ve written this post as a reminder that we all have the ability for greatness! Leaders are open to hard work, digging deep and striving for success. They enjoy a challenge and always come to the table prepared.
The question remains…What type of leader will you be?
Peace my Friends,
Kris Kelly