Page 352 - Keys to College Success

Think of leaders who have inspired you. Do you
look up to humanitarian heroes such as Mahatma
Ghandi or Nelson Mandela? Perhaps you admire
agents of social change such as Martin Luther King, Jr.
or Aung San Suu Kyi. Maybe you are motivated by the
leadership of influential politicians, writers, scientists,
artists, athletes, and businesspeople. Consider whether
these people embody just one or both of the defini-
tions of leadership. When you read the last part of
Lauren’s story at the end of the chapter, think about
what kind of leadership she demonstrates.

Components of Leadership

There are several components that make up the experi-
ence of leadership. They are as follows: 11
1. Leadership is a process, not a state of being. Being comfortable speaking in front of a group is an essential skill for
A leader can’t just be a leader when given a the modern workplace. Take advantage of opportunities, in class as
title—a leader does. Leadership demands action, well as with campus activities, to hone your speaking skills.
following a process toward a goal.
2. Leadership means influencing the thoughts, feel-
ings, and actions of others, whether by example or by directive (see Key 12.5 for
the ways that effective leaders set an example).
3. Leadership happens in the context of a group. A leader working alone is not a
leader—there must be followers involved.
4. Leadership involves reaching a goal together with efforts from others in the group.
5. Leadership demands that the group and the leader share the same goal.
These components show that a leader is able to generate motion and energy, mov-
ing currents of action and communication throughout a group and propelling them
toward a common goal. Being a leader is a risk, but the reward is that effective leaders
of any scope—from the head of the United Nations to the chairperson of a community
board—get things done.

Making a Difference as a Student Leader
Students can and should find opportunities to lead, either by action or by example.
Leadership now gives you opportunities to make a difference for others within and

KEY 12.5 Effective leaders set an example through . . .

BEHAVIOR FOLLOW-THROUGH POSITIVE SELF-IDENTITY VALUES VISION

Leaders model most Leaders do what they Leaders are aware of both Leaders demonstrate Leaders have a vision of
effective, positive behaviors. say they will do. They their strengths and values that inspire what is possible and know
When they ask others to meet deadlines and weaknesses. They believe in team members as how to convey it. They
behave in a certain way, deliver on their themselves and work to well as support team maintain their vision in the
they do the same. They take promises. grow and improve. goals. face of obstacles. Thriving in a Diverse Global Community
responsibility for their
actions.

315