Leadership

What Defines a Leader?

My interpretation of a leader has changed from what it was in the beginning of the semester. As we approach the end, I have surmised that labeling people as leaders demolishes their human aspect. There is nothing wrong about the term itself, rather people’s interpretation of a person once they have been deemed a leader, and actions associated with them. A common consensus is that leaders are individuals that take charge to create change. They are brave, incapable of making mistakes, and stable. While this is partially true,this focus of thought has minimized leaders personalities and takes away their complexity. As a result, we often at times do not take into consideration their journey. Becoming a leader is a journey filled with numerous obstacles. General William T. Sherman, for example, was deemed a destructive leader based on the sparse knowledge we are presented about him. Sherman was more than his label. In the The March, a novel by E.L Doctorow, we observe how Sherman’s personality is a kaleidoscope – composed of different patterns and colors – but this makes him unique in his leadership. Sherman is both strong and weak. Logical and illogical. These are also characteristics of any person. This also speaks to how any person can become a leader of their own cause given the right support and commitment. Another example is civil rights activist John Lewis. In his graphic memoir the March, we analyzed and process the various impactful moments of John Lewis’ life that lead him to his present-day self. We also analyze how those moments shaped his beliefs. It’s hard to believe how much chickens, the bible, or a single trip can play a significant role on someone’s character.Overall, John Lewis’ memoir taught me that leaders are created through circumstance.We also analyzed more current leaders of today such as Stacey Abrams and her role in regard to removing the history of the Confederacy from Georgia. A small group of individuals showed their protest of confederate monuments by burning the Georgia flag that heavily resembled the Confederate flag. Although Abrams did not burn the flag, she was present at the event. In comparing this act with other violent acts committed by those that support the confederacy, this was peaceful. However, this event was considered anything but peaceful to some, and as a leader you will face the issue of not being able to please every person. Not everyone will comprehend your cause, but it’s important to speak to those who do understand. In summary, this is all I took from this course. Leaders are people with charisma, but they are people nonetheless. They are allowed mistakes and moments of weakness, and like a phoenix, they rise from the ashes.