This seminar got me thinking about what values I would like a leader to have and if I were a leader would my values play a part in the way I lead. This was the case for me last summer, when I worked on an a cultural anthropology team and my ethical values felt threatened. Considering that I had come up with the idea and implementation for the project, I felt like I had to keep other people on my team from violating the consent form our participants had signed. Since the seminar, I got to reflect on the way I let my values influence the way I lead during that project. I have also considered other values that a leader should have, such as decision making, being respectful, knowledgeable, and cooperative. These are characteristics we sometimes forget a leader should have, but are integral parts of making an effective leader.
Rose Scholars Spring 2019
Endless possibilities
I agree with your definition of leader. I have struggled through many group projects at Cornell and feel that at each point, I have changed the qualities that I prioritize in a leader. It can be hard to have one figurehead to uniformly to display all these qualities, that is why I wish leadership is also focused on the people who are working with the leader and their responsibilities. After all, all the members make the team, not just the leader.
Group projects can really test people’s patience, and it often happens that the stress of dealing with different levels of effort or dedication or communication can strain the positive leadership roles we always want to have. I understand, believe me. But introspection and growth make a strong leader as well, so I think this seminar itself and this post strengthened your leadership skills!