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Writer's pictureJekiel Bishop

WHAT IS A LEADER?

Updated: Feb 10, 2023


Everyone has their definition of what a Leader is.


The term Leader is so often thrown around to identify the head of the snake, the head of any organization is always considered its Leader.


Just like every military institution, the most senior ranking is considered the Leader. Why?

I’ll argue that just because you have been around longer doesn’t necessarily give you the crown.


I have worked with many “Seniors” I’ll call them, who lacked all basic Leadership qualities yet because of their time in the organization they were expected to be Leaders.

I say it now and I will always say it. Leadership is an individual decision that involves one to WANT to impact the lives of their subordinates and the organization in a positive manner.


So does that mean anyone can be a Leader if they choose to?


Well, the direct answer is YES, however not everyone can be a Leader in the field in which they work or should I say not everyone wants to be a Leader in their work environment because one has to ACCEPT the role internally first.


There will be more Leaders residing in passion projects and hobbies vs the corporate world for that very same reason mentioned above.


Many never to be seen or discovered and you know what... there is nothing wrong with that.



(Jekiel Bishop US Army 2017)




THE GOOD AND THE BAD


What do those so-called Leaders do when a junior volunteers a great alternative to the plan or a different solution to an issue?

Those imitation Leaders feel threatened, embarrassed, and, could even display a little anger.


“Who does this newbie think she is giving me recommendations to?”


Instead of promoting the concept of critical thinking, bad Leaders often begin to belittle and embarrass the young try-hards when faced with this scenario.


Those so-called Leaders are the exact problem with the title LEADER

The word Leader means something. It’s not just a way to mention a person of seniority.


Now how would a real Leader respond in that same scenario?


A good Leader would identify the potential that the new plan could in fact be the right move; they analyze it, make the decision, and “remarkably" give praise and even some positive reinforcement to the young junior that had the great idea.


(WHAT? A Leader giving praise?! What the heck is going on



IS THERE A TRUE DEFINITION OF A LEADER?


So back to the original question of What is a Leader?


I believe a Leader is one who readily accepts the responsibility to care for their subordinate's, welfare, professional career, personal ventures, and overall success.


A Leader MUST maintain the professional position they are in and provide the vision and the "why" behind the organization’s goals.


The Leader must maintain emotional intelligence, transparency, and mission purpose above all things.


A Leader must be able to direct, influence, and motivate.



(ISHA.SADHGURU.ORG PHOTO CREDIT)


So now armed with this information what are you going to do?


I'll tell you, you're going to go and determine who exactly are your Leaders.


Determine If you are indeed a Leader.


Watch and observe your current Leaders and those "people in charge"(we won't dare dignify them by labeling them as a Leader).


Watch them closely.


Remember a Leader wants to be there and cares for every single member of the team both professionally and personally.


Once you determine who those Leaders are... make a decision to continue to learn and observe or to step off and become a LEADER yourself!


When in doubt visit the YouTube channel below!




Jekiel A. Bishop



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