What Type of Leader Am I?

Sometimes it is easy to feel confined in a one dimensional perspective of what a leader is supposed to be. Growing up you’ll realize that there is a space and opportunity for everyone to grow and develop their skills in a leadership role. There is no one right type of leader.

We are at a new period in history where women are finally given a seat at the table, and while it is great to see businesses and corporations try to be more inclusive, there is still much work to be done. Every day since the beginning of time women have fought to have a voice in social and global issues. New women of this generation (Millenials/Generation Z) are now allotted a space on many platforms whether that's social media, in the classroom, or in the workplace to express their perspectives on such topics. But doing such things on public platforms is easier said than done, and many women have faced scrutiny for taking up the mantle. While it may be daunting to put yourself out there even in a place such as the classroom, you must take a look outside of yourself and think about what type of image you are projecting. You never know who else might be watching and who is also afraid of “getting it wrong” or “saying the wrong thing”. Imagine yourself in a classroom; Oftentime there may be a question posed by a professor that you want to answer and maybe another woman takes the reins and responds in a way that you would have, something about that should bring you a sense of comfort. It is okay to take her coattail and follow in the pursuit of unity. Because seeing another women answer that question makes you realize that you have more in common than you have apart because there is a sense of connectedness and motivation to not be afraid. Truly there is no greater advocate for women than women. It is paramount that we understand that it is okay and sometimes apropos to be unabashedly confident in your own words.  
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We must start this by creating a network of inspiration for ourselves, whether that's our mothers or women we see on television. Creating this network will help you to further develop and hone in on skills that are important to YOU and YOUR interests. Because all you need is a little motivation to develop confidence and the right tools to succeed.

Start by setting mini goals for yourself and they will develop into bigger goals and achievements and soon you will be able to challenge yourself in diverse spaces. Understand that to be a leader proceeds public speaking or being president of an organization. You can be a leader behind the scenes, typing code, or writing articles. Women of color need to learn that there is no limit to which we can lead and make an impact for young girls in generations to come.

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Written By: Eve Daley

I am a college student who loves learning about the stories and backgrounds of others. Personal passions include film, photography, and writing.