Being a leader requires someone to be whatever a group needs. In this instance being a leader cannot be bound by titles or characteristics. I remember during class we were discussing how leadership is not defined by a title or position. I had to think about this for a while because I had always envisioned a leader to be outgoing, forthright, and a creative thinker. Now that I am in college, I have noticed different types of leadership styles. Some may appoint tasks to group individuals, while others do the tasks needed for a group to function. Participation within a group acts as a form of leadership as well. Have you ever been in a class and on the first day you are surrounded by people you do not know. Then suddenly, your professor asks the class a question. You know the answer, but decide not to raise your hand for fear that you will have the wrong answer or be mocked. I find it that a lot of people are caught in a situation such as this one. However, I find it relieving when someone raises their hand, takes initiative and answers the question asked. Quite often the question is not just the professor’s but other students as well. In this case participation is a form of leadership in that an individual is helping other students in the way that they know how.
Here is a TEDx talk video about leadership: Leading With Lollipops
November 7th, 2012 at 4:00 pm
I think that you are absolutely right about alot of people not wanting to answer a question on the first day of class. When we are surrounded by strangers it is natral for us to fear looking foolish or being judged based on one statment. But even if the answer is wrong or the opinion is far fetched its is not foolish at all to step up to the plate and be the one to lead the class in discussion. All it takes is one person being willing to share a little of themselves to inspire others to do so as well. That being said, a leader should also know when to pull back, this is also another issue that can be faced in a classroom environment. The best conclusions from discussions are drawn when anyone who want is allowed t share their unique ideas or answers, but when no single person or idea becomes to overbearing.
November 7th, 2012 at 4:05 pm
I think that you are absolutely right about alot of people not wanting to answer a question on the first day of class. When we are surrounded by strangers it is natral for us to fear looking foolish or being judged based on one statment. But even if the answer is wrong or the opinion is far fetched its is not foolish at all to step up to the plate and be the one to lead the class in discussion. All it takes is one person being willing to share a little of themselves to inspire others to do so as well. That being said, a leader should also know when to pull back, this is also another issue that can be faced in a classroom environment. The best conclusions from discussions are drawn when anyone who wants is allowed to share their unique ideas or answers, but when no single person or idea becomes too overbearing.