Final Leadership Definition (12/16)

As the class kind of trailed off following the submission of the group paper I felt it was appropriate to post a final leadership definition and dwell shortly on my opinions of the class.

Last Week's Definition:
Optimal leadership includes self-improvement paired with the work of the group. One should recognize the limitations of the self and initial group and set clear goals for outcomes, learning over time to work better as a group and as a leader.

New Definition:
There is no perfect approach to leadership; one must constantly assess oneself and the larger situation, altering your behavior to help motivate those around you. Challenges must be accepted and understood both on a group and personal level. One size does not fit all with leadership, a true leader must recognize this.

Analysis:
I went into this class expecting tactics; tricks of the trade on how to win people over and get them to "follow". Instead I was presented with a long list of obstacles to interpersonal productivity and the reality that there is no "magic bullet" solution to leading. Personally I have taken steps to improve clarity in my communication, specifically delegating responsibilities so that expectations are not misconstrued and to take charge of my work, doing what I promise and expecting others to live up to this standard. Obviously this is just a first step, but as I mentioned in my second journey paper I believe you must lead by example, maintaining personal accountability for your own actions before you expect this of others.

There was some interesting reading for this class, not sure if the online format was right for me (first class all online) but I feel I got something out of it. I plan to continue with the leadership minor program.

Thanks guys,

-Jesse