Legacy

I think that people need to realize that anyone can be a leader. It is not a trait, it is not inborn. Instead, it is something that can be learned and developed and it should be. Followers are just as important as leaders and you don't have to be in a certain position to be in either of those roles. If you want to be a leader, in any capacity, just start realizing what is importance to you and what your values are. Then decide how you can go about doing those things and getting others to follow you through your words and actions. Be dedicated and committed and show compassion for others. You may fail, you may have to put yourself out there and take a risk, but at the very least you will learn from those experiences. Leadership is an ongoing process and mostly you need to believe in yourself, your vision and those around you.

Personally, when it comes to myself as a leader, I would like to be thought of someone who is authentic. Not just authentic in the way that they are always one way, but authentic that I am always myself. Even if a situation may change the exact style that I would use with others, that I still do it in a way that is truly "me". I would like to agree with Avolio who thinks of this type of leadership as developmental, something that emerges over a lifetime. The things that happen in my life, such as my mom's illness have changed me, but in a positive way that allows me to become more of myself. I would to be thought of as someone who was relationship oriented, but still managed to get things done effectively and efficiently. I want the projects and things that I am a leader, or even a follower, on to be highly correlated to what my values are. I think this relates to modeling the way, or being an example for others. I want to do many things with my life, and I would like to help do many things with others, on campus and professionally. As my life changes and I move on to new things, I would like to know that whatever project or assignment that I was once a part of is still being successful; partially due to the work that I helped complete.