There are five basic questions that aspiring news writers are taught to answer in beginning journalism, the 5 W’s – Who, What, Where, When, Why. The subject of leadership has been scrutinized by humans for thousands of years. It can be helpful to reduce the conversation to some basic questions using the 5 W’s of journalism.
Who
Often an individual can simply find themselves in a leadership position as a kind of default. “Someone has to do it.” These situations lead to frustration and an incomplete or less than optimal outcome. “Natural Leaders” will achieve limited success if they only rely on their innate abilities and talent without pursuing growth. I believe that we are all leaders in some capacity wether it is intentional or not.
What
What does it actually mean to lead?
A common mistake confuses management with leadership. A good manager makes processes and systems work, function as they should. Managers are extremely valuable and important components to success but they are not necessarily leaders.
leaders create, refine and cast visions that move people and organizations forward. Simply stated – They get things done.
Where & When
Leadership is a constant and when perceived and executed correctly should occur in a 360 degree arc, meaning that some level of leadership occurs throughout an effective and dynamic organization.
Why
I feel there are some important questions that are not asked often enough.
Why do you feel you are called to lead?
Why do want to lead?
What traits do you posses or pursue to be a leaders?
A couple of foundational truths I learned from my friend and mentor, John Maxwell state
“No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care” and “Leadership is influence – nothing more, nothing less.”
A vision is just a daydream until someone that is committed and passionate enough makes it happen. It is rare that anything of value is accomplished alone and that makes leadership a necessity for progress. True visionary, dynamic leadership requires determined introspection in a committed pursuit of growth and understanding. We must pursue a humility that reminds us to continually pursue wisdom, a compassion for those that God places in our sphere of influence and empathy for every person that we can reach in order to understand their needs and wants.
Leadership is a topic that can and should be discussed regularly. Accordingly, If called to leadership, you should pursue mentors and opportunities. Always remember that being called to lead is a humbling honor and responsibility.
Lake Lavon Camp will be offering a High School Leadership Internship program in the summer of 2023 for students from the 9th – 11th year. The 2 week program is currently accepting applications. If you would like more information, please contact us – summercamps@lakelavoncamp.com
