Values in Leadership.

I really enjoyed reading the article, “Values in Leadership.” I liked the fact that in the beginning of the article the author pointed out, “We say that Pablo Escobar, head of the Medellin drug cared was a leader, even if we detested his values, because he motivated followers to realize his vision.”(p.13)

It makes me realize that leaders come in all shapes, sizes, colors, etc. It gives me hope for becoming a leader, as I always felt I didn’t fit the “picture” of a leader. I imagine leaders dressed for success so to speak. If I had the money perhaps I could buy a suit or something from Banana Republic and dress the part of a leader, but I don’t. But it does suggest that perhaps I should be more conscious of how I come across to people as I could be becoming a leader in someone’s eyes.

On page 20 the author suggests that it may be more useful to define leadership as an activity. I love activities. I love being involved in things. I strive to be part of a community and accepted as myself. The term activity is less daunting. Facing our fears is a huge challenge, I am afraid of being a leader. I am afraid that I may make a mistake and loose the trust of those who are looking to me for guidance. At some point I know I will have to face my fears, and I think taking the “activity” approach will be a very useful tool for me.