Some of us are natural born leaders and then there are those who are not. No matter what, everyone has a leader inside of them that is just waiting to come out. Finding the leader within is often a difficult task for some. However, once you discover that you have the ability to lead effectively, you will forever be a leader.

Before you can lead, you have to know what a leader truly is. A person who can lead a group in a positive way is someone who has the ability to influence that group. People should be able to understand your vision and see that you have the drive to execute that vision. Leaders have to not only say what they want to change, but they have to do what is necessary to implement the change that they want to see. By influencing a group, you are allowing others to aid and support you in your efforts to make a change. A leader is someone who also knows when to follow. The leader of the group is not the “dictator” of the group. This person should make everyone feel that they have an equal part in participating in the group and should allow others a chance to shine. Leadership also means learning. Being a leader, you have to be open to learning new things constantly. You have to continue to grow as a leader. Growth comes from continuous learning.

Being a leader takes more than just telling people what to do. If you want to be successful in a leadership position, you have to educate yourself on what it means to create change. It is also important to remember to involve yourself in not only your group, but also in the community around you. There is a leader within everyone. It is now up to you to dig deep and find the leader within you!

Leadership is not a position, but a process.

Michaela C., Editor of College Life