Look Who Changed The World

I am in a group counseling class, and part of the class requirement is to participate in a process group. A few weeks ago I shared that I typically find myself in leadership positions. My life has always seemed to follow the same patterns. Maybe it is because I'm pretty blunt about most things. Maybe my need for organization drives me to manage situations. Maybe I'm just a control freak. I don't know. But this got me thinking....

If I am a natural leader, what kind of leader am I?

Recently I came across a list of the top 100 people who changed the world. A LOT of the people on the list, I don't have a clue who they are. (history has never really been my strong point) Here are a few of the names I recognized on that list: Jesus Christ, Martin Luther King Jr, Joan of Arc, Abraham Lincoln, Buddha, Martin Luther, Mother Teresa....and many many more. Through my processing I have learned the type of leader I want to be. I still have some work to do...

1. To communicate clearly, calmly, and effectively.
2. To commit to a sense of enthusiasm that is contagious
3. To value those I lead
4. To remain humble in even the most difficult situations. I will always have something to learn.
5. To not be afraid to get my hands dirty. The most effective leaders will lead by example. (note list above)
6. To commit to the success of everyone involved in any given task
7. To be willing to take risks
8. To be open minded, and able to admit when I'm wrong
9. To be reliable and consistent
10. To be patient. Everyone will not see things the way I do.
11. To be honest
12. To always keep perspective

Let's be honest, this list could go on and on and on. I'm sure I will continue to learn about leadership and about myself along the way. I just want to be the kind of person that people want to follow. I want people to look up to me because of my character and not my status.