Leadership

What kind of leader do I want to be?

This week, I have had plenty of opportunities to consider what it means to lead. From a sermon at church to attending interviews for our next superintendent, this question has been on strongly on my mind. As I pondered it, some quotes came to mind:

"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." ~1 Peter 5:2-3, NIV Bible
Whether or not you agree with the spiritual background of this verse, it is written to leaders of a church, and has some great points to make about leadership in general. Do not lead simply out of a sense of obligation - but out of joy! Don't lead just because of what you can gain, but because of how you can benefit those around you. And do not parade your authority, but model and lead by example. This is what I strive for.

"A servant leader works tirelessly to develop his or her people and is focused on what they can do for others." ~Cheryl Williamson
Similarly, this quote speaks of sacrificing yourself (your time, your energy, your needs) and focusing on the people around you, then widening the circle. Danger: We can't ignore our own needs completely, but if that is the only thing we are focusing on, we are not being good leaders.

"The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office." ~Dwight D. Eisenhower
This connects back to my #oneword2018 of integrity, and really focuses on character. If I can trust my leaders, if I believe they will always strive to do the right thing, I am more likely to follow them. If I have reason to question their integrity, I will always follow with caution. I want to be a leader who is trustworthy.

We are all leaders, in some form or another. As students, teachers, administrators, or support staff, we have influence over many others every day. So the question returns:

What kind of leader do YOU want to be?