Leadership

Leadership is a topic that is constantly discussed. It is discussed in grade school, high school and all throughout our collegiate careers. It is even discussed in non-academic environments such as non-profit organizations, religious organizations, and in the work place. Wherever we go a leader or leaders surround us, and at some point in our lives we have all been or will be leaders. Whether it be in an emergency situation by simply telling someone to "call 911" is taking ownership for the situations and stepping up to the plate. Leadership is everywhere! Some leadership positions have more weight to them then others do, for example the President of the United States has more on his shoulders than say the Mayor of a city or town. My question is; is everyone really meant to be a leader? If a child fails second grade is it the teachers fault he/she failed? If those you lead fail, does that make you less of a leader? These questions have bothered me for months now. Leaders fail not because the follower fails but because of the leaders failure to realize the responsibility that comes along with the title of "leader". For a while I believed it was the leaders fault for the failer of his/her followers, but is the leader responsible for the actions of the followers? I came to the conclusion that you can't control what people do! People have a choice and will make choices whether good or bad, right or wrong, but when choices are made our leaders/mentors are supposed to guide us in the right direction. You see being a leader it is not just about you, or the position or status you may hold. True leadership is about everyone else around you, the example you set, by the way you live your life, and by the way you react to things. I am no expert, but I know that no one is perfect and leadership is hard, and is always always up for the judgment of others! I can not find or know a perfect leader, but I have found people willing to change for the better and make a difference no matter how small or large, and that is the kind of leader I want and the leader I strive to be.

Are you a leader, and if so what is the force that drives you to be a leader?