Much can be said about what makes a leader. It seems that we as humans are looking for that person who can spell it all out for us and do the hard work on our behalf.
Many have claimed to be leaders and some have succeeded. It got me thinking…what is a leader really? As the dictionary points out, “It is to act as a guide; show the way.”
I was faced with questions of leadership in a recent interview and I recalled a moment when asked to speak at a retreat for a local program called “Out in Front”. It’s a program to help educate people on how to be an effective leader in the LGBT community.
Honestly, I wasn’t sure how I was going to explain to others my experience and the places my life has taken me, but I was sure that I wanted the experience to challenge them because it was the reason they were there. I wanted them to stop for a moment and let go of their preconceived notions of who they thought they were.
Mostly I wanted them to check their egos at the door. If they were in this program to build their resumes as their only goal, I suggested that they find a better use of their talent. I wanted them to center and to try and think with their heart.
My schooling in how we are going to be effective is to stop the bull and get down to talking about what is really motivating one’s self. For me…it is only my heart and that is what pushes me to try everyday to see progress and hopefully, one day, equality.
I would like to introduce you to a very important person whose quest for leadership and education are aiming to make all of us effective leaders. Her name is Rajkumari Neogy and she has a weekly podcast that I believe you might find fulfilling.
Please take a moment to explore her new endeavor and passion.
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