I am a Leader Because...

What defines a leader? The definition of a leader is someone who “leads or commands a group, organization, or country” Yet, there is so much more to being a leader than just setting forth commands. A leader must display integrity, loyalty, honesty and respect. The lessons throughout my life have helped form my leadership qualities. I acknowledge the importance of possessing these qualities and strive to excel in these defined areas. I believe as a leader I must inspire others not only through words, but through my actions. I must maintain focus so that my goals may be achieved. I must instill confidence in those around me by setting an example by adhering to my values and beliefs.

As President Ronald Reagan once said, “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” Inspirational leadership is about creating a sense of purpose and direction among those you are leading while instilling excitement and momentum for change. An inspiring leader is someone who communicates clearly and concisely and by doing so motivates people to give their best at all times. A leader who wishes to inspire others must challenge others by setting high yet attainable standards and expectations. They must also provide others with the support and resources to pursue those goals. I believe to inspire other I must be inspired myself. I have to have a true passion and belief that the goals I am working towards are meaningful and will make a difference in someone’s life.  For example, last year our school decided to raise money and items for a women’s shelter. Initially, students were not involved or participating. I believe it was because, for them, it was just a women’s shelter. They felt no connection to those within the shelter, thus were not motivated or inspired to help out. It was not until I decided to take students out into the community, that they truly felt inspired. Knocking on the doors of neighbours and listening to their worldly advice allowed for the students to become insightful of the possible situations that some of these women may have endured. It often takes someone to teach you rather than to preach to you, for you to become inspired.

The definition of focus is having or producing a clear visual definition. Extraordinary leaders are those who plan ahead and are supremely organized. Organization, I must say, is definitely one of my strong suits. “They think through multiple scenarios and the possible impacts of their decisions, while considering viable alternatives and making plans and strategies-all targeted toward success.” Once a common goal is in sight, rules, strategies and routines are all established.  I could use a famous quote here, however, I believe a comment on my first report card would suffice, “ Emma is extremely organized and goal-oriented.” A quick peek at my calendar, both school and personal, will reveal my astute organization skill set. I have watched my parents hold down careers while also taking care of three rambunctious children, and never missing a soccer practise, horse riding lesson or spelling bee once. They have passed on their organizational skills that have allowed them to participate fully in their professional careers and children's’ lives while also giving the family freedom and spontaneity. Not only are organizational skills fundamental in being a great leader, but being goal-oriented is a necessity too.  I have a goal-go to medical school- I have a Plan A, Plan B, Plan XYZ. I realise that to attain anything in life, you have to strive towards a goal. I am a true believe of setting the bar high. People may say by setting the bar so high, I will get disappointed easily. However, I have found that even if I do not achieve that high standard, I have still attained something great.

I believe confidence is gained through taking measured risks. By this I mean don't belly flop off a 30ft cliff at 8 years old when nobody's watching. Throughout my life, my parents and school have created situations where I have either pushed myself out of my comfort zone. In the motivational drawing of Shauna Pollock, to step outside your comfort zone is where the magic will happen. I believe that confidence is contagious. Confidence inspires confidence, when a leader is confident, they instil confidence among their people. “When challenged, they don't give in too easily, because they know their ideas, opinions, and strategies are well-informed and the result of much hard work.” Confidence is nothing but sheer belief in your abilities or credentials.

To be a leader, one must exhibit many qualities, from loyalty to ambition to communication. I believe as a leader, you need to have a little bit of everything and remember that “It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur.” -Nelson Mandela