Everybody is unique. From our interests to our preferences and even our choice of entertainment. People vary according to many standards and decisions they make every day. But, what many people fail to realize, is that despite our differences in personality and background, each of us actually has the unique capacity to lead. And, while you might think this not true, you’ll be surprised at what you’re capable of doing under the right circumstances.
However, we see this misconception on our ability to lead, play out far too many times that it’s become a rampant issue that’s undermining numerous people’s self-confidence and belief in themselves. And while there’s nothing inherently wrong with just being the follower of advocacy or principle, it often internalizes the counterproductive thinking of imposing false limitations on yourself. So, today, we’ll be going over some changes that might persuade you otherwise.
1. You’re Looking At The Wrong Things
No two people are alike, and the same applies to our capability of becoming a leader. If you’re pursuing a field and subject that doesn’t particularly interest you or you feel passionate about, then nine times out of ten, that position will never allow you to lead. So instead of keeping yourself busy with things that don’t spark a desire to improve and strive for a goal, we strongly suggest looking elsewhere.
- Explore And Pursue Your Passion: An excellent place to start is exploring areas and advocacies you personally feel passionate about because then striving for leadership no longer feels like a burdensome responsibility but an opportunity to grow. For example, you might be an advocate for reforms and respect for LGBT rights, and your voice might be the extra bit needed so that key stakeholders will start to listen!
- Don’t Force Yourself And Strike At Motivation: On the opposite end, we also acknowledge that people strive to become leaders in certain areas but fall flat. And while we don’t mean to invalidate your efforts, that area might not just be your calling and is the world’s way of telling you to look deeper. We recommend taking a step back and striking at the activities that intrinsically motivate you because these often coincide with your deeper interests in life.
2. You Need A Little Push
Sometimes it’s not a case of being in the wrong place but just needing that little shove forward, and when you finally decide to dip your toes in the water, you’ll find out that you’re more than capable of swimming and holding your own. It’s perfectly normal to feel scared and afraid of trying new things, but always remember that our lives are but a finite moment in the world’s lifetime, so use the precious moments you have now wisely to make your mark.
- Maybe Taking Leadership Classes: There’s only so much we can do by ourselves, so instead of trying to shoulder the difficult task of teaching yourself to become a leader, seek the guidance of those already making a change. Attending leadership classes on facilitative coaching and sparking collaborative action among your peers can help streamline your leadership journey. These teachers can provide insightful lessons straight from their personal experiences.
- Seek Discomfort And Step Out: Most people carry the misconception that opportunities come rarely. Still, in reality, many opportune moments are passing you by and waiting at your doorstep – all you have to do is take the initiative. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with staying in your comfort zone and working through challenges there, but there’s also no better teacher than to experience it yourself.
3. Need Some Practice On Communication
Leadership skills denote good communication skills as well, and while talking with friends and having fun at parties is easy to do, collaboration and working together is an entirely different competency you must improve. Not everyone’s an excellent communicator by heart, and it’s a common barrier to leadership, but there’s nothing a bit of practice can’t overcome.
Also, read: Dr.Kalam: 7 Life Lessons I Learned From The Leader
- Selflessness And Genuine Concern For Others: To compound your efforts in practicing communication skills, it also helps to have your heart and mind in the right place. As a leader, you want to practice selflessness and genuine concern for others, wherein you always put the interest of the group first over mere personal whims. And whether that’s through listening to the mental challenges your people are facing or maybe celebrating small wins, effective leaders are also thoughtful.
Discover Your Inner Leader
Leadership skills take time to nurture and develop but put in the right amount of time and effort, and you’ll undoubtedly discover your inner leader just waiting for the right opportunity to come out. So, please don’t go around underestimating yourself because you might be the leader your community has been waiting for this entire time.