What Kind of Leader Am I?

I was writing a guest blog post for a fellow #SAPro a few weeks ago on leadership and ever since I’ve not been able to stop contemplating on my own leadership and what it means to me.

Leadership can come in many forms. For some, leadership can be silent reflection, while others it may be verbal brainstorming. It can be seen as mentorship or dictatorship. It manifests to some as power while to others as honor. It can be good or bad. Leadership can be “do as I say” or “learn from my mistakes”. It can also be hierarchical or inclusive.

For me, leadership is a privilege that requires being both mentor and magistrate. It’s a role where, if you make a mistake you must own it to be successful. It is a position that requires balance. And it is something that most are thrust into rather than aiming for.

So amidst all this what type of leader am I? Upon reflecting…I have no clue.

I’m not by any means the strongest leader. I’m one who does make mistakes. But my heart always has the best interest in mind for those I lead. I may not always be the most articulate, but I can still get the job done. I utilize the resources and knowledge of those around me often. I find support in words of affirmation and have learned to accept harsh criticism. I wear my emotions on my sleeve and at times can be taken advantage of easily. I’m able to multitask often but need reminders just as frequently. I have high expectations of those I lead and even higher of myself. When I need a break, I NEED a break and go off-line for a day or two to recuperate. I find purpose in helping others succeed. I can have a jealous streak when I falter and another succeeds. I find comfort in seeing someone stepping up and becoming their own leader. I push and strive to help those I lead sometimes to a fault. I am very protective when I feel those I lead are being threatened.

So what type of leader am I? I suppose I’m a human leader. Imperfect and dedicated. Passionate and unbalanced. And even a little panda crazy. But upon reflecting, maybe it’s not being the strongest leader and making the right decision every time. Maybe it’s not being able to balance everything to a tee and always having a smile on your face. Perhaps, for myself, it is the growing and evolving I undergo as I encounter situations and how I example to others how to develop that makes me a leader.

Meh, food for thought 🙂

Until next time!

Peace, Love and Pandas!