Personal Philosophy of Leadership

Personal Philosophy of Leadership My idea of leadership has developed over time, and being a member of the Northwestern University’s Leadership class has helped me develop my philosophy of leadership further than what it was two months ago. Being a leader is more than simply holding a leadership position or having the ability to lead. Everyone is capable of being a leader, but not everyone exercises his or her leadership abilities. A great leader can be both born with a leadership skill set and a leader can be made into great leader. Each person’s idea of leadership is different. My personal philosophy of leadership is the ability to effect change through leading by example, taking initiative, and encouraging others. When someone becomes a manager either through an internal promotion or hired externally, one has to possess the confidence to consider them a leader. Leadership philosophy differs from Management philosophy, where as a leader focus on doing the right thing and a manager does things right Leadership involves engagement, mentoring strategic thinking and bringing the best out of your employees (Chalker, 2011) Management involves overseeing and handling the day-to-day operations. Planning and measuring. A good leader has the ability to build concrete skill set in both management and leadership and can gracefully adjust between the two. There have been many things that have affected my philosophy of leadership. Something that has affected me as a leader is my values. One of my core values is responsibility. As a leader, it is important I understand what to do and what is expected of me. When I am responsible as a leader, those I am trying to lead are more willing to do what I ask them to do. Another of my values is respect. In the past, I am always nice and listen to the ideas of others even if they are not the easiest people to be around. In my experience, it has been easier to earn the respect of my constituents when I respect them as

References: Komives, Susan R., Lucas, Nance, & McMahon, Timothy R. (2006). Exploring Leadership: For College Students Who Want to Make a Difference. Jossey-Bass. Komives, Susan R., & Wagner, Wendy. (2009). Leadership for a Better World: Understanding the Social Change Model of Leadership Development. John Wiley & Sons. Kouzes, James M., & Posner, Barry Z. (2008). The Student Leadership Challenge: Five Practices for Exemplary Leaders. San Francisco, California. Jossey-Bass. Chalker, A. (2011, April 26). Leadership vs. Management Skills: Leaders at All Levels Must Build Both and Learn to Switch Effortlessly Between the Two . Retrieved April 22, 2012, from Suntiva: http://www.suntiva.com/blog/post/11/leadership-vs.-management-skills:-leaders-at-all-levels-must-build-both-and-learn-to-switch-effortlessly-between-the-two/ Moua, M. P. (2006). Developing A Philosophy of Leadership. Retrieved April 21, 2012, from Leadership Paradigms: http://leadershipparadigms.com/