Defining the word ‘leader’





For many months now we’ve listened to debates about who should lead the country and why. But there’s another debate going on too, one that isn’t focused so much on who should lead, but how they should do it. And many people, like me, are asking “What exactly does it mean to be a ‘leader’ anyway?”

There seems to be a growing sense of dissatisfaction with the traditional style of leadership, particularly among today’s young people. In a recent survey by the Girl Scout Research Institute, girls said that they want to be leaders, but not the way “leader” is traditionally defined as someone who is bossy, powerful and controlling. Instead, they aspire to be leaders who are inclusive, collaborative and who serve a greater purpose.

This survey should serve as a wakeup call for all of us. Society is clearly ready for change. We live in a complex, diverse world with a complex, diverse workforce and many complex problems to solve. Managing all that will require leadership that focuses on the common good.

One of the few positive aspects of this year’s seemingly endless primary process is that it’s kicked off a national discussion about leadership. Hopefully, this conversation will continue long after we’ve elected the next president, because changing our perception of leadership won’t happen overnight.

If we truly want change, we need to nurture the leadership capabilities of our young people There’s little doubt that the next generation will redefine leadership in a way that better serves all of us. So any time you have an opportunity to encourage young people to be brave, confident and true to themselves, to stand up as leaders both today and tomorrow, be sure to take that opportunity.

Our future depends on it.

Kimberlie Nitti

Topanga



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