The definition of a leader is defined by Merriam Webster as “a person who leads.” A simple and an objective phrase which carries little meaning to what leadership means. Another article written by Susan Ward in ‘The Balance’ defines leadership a step further as “the art of motivating a group of people to act towards achieving a common goal.” Both definitions capture the overall essence of being in control or in command. Yet from my experience in leadership roles, I have come to understand that leadership is not just about motivating someone to follow your objective. Leadership also pertains to your personality and authenticity. Similar to qualities expressed by Katherine Goble, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, three iconic women worked at
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For the first seven years of my life, I enjoyed life as being the only child. I received all the attention and was showered with spontaneous gifts from my mother who lived in Cleveland, Ohio while I stayed with my grandma back in Ghana. One day my mom called and announced the news that I will have a younger sister. A year after she was born, my mom was expecting again. I arrived in America during the winter of 2012. And my siblings were finally introduced to their immaculate big sister they had heard so much about. They fell in love with me instantly, but I still held a little grudge on my end thinking about the attention they stole from me. Few weeks later, I understood what being the first born meant. Responsibilities were handed to me on a silver platter. I ran helter skelter with my day to day activities. Sleeping until 11 am on the weekends became nearly impossible when my day started the minute the first child woke up. However, as time went on, these responsibilities became a mere bother. With a growth mindset, I familiarized myself in this new situation and became comfortable. I transformed from a formerly pampered, carefree kid to an adult. My behavior mellowed towards my siblings, which consequently, amplified my characteristics of care and kindness. Being a big sister didn't come with a manual, but I am proud to say I figured it out. They motivate and inspire me daily to be the best I can be. And that’s another characteristic of a leader. Not only do they impact the lives of others, but they learn from the changes that happens around them. My siblings have indirectly constructed a leader and commander who will be of service to them whenever
For the first seven years of my life, I enjoyed life as being the only child. I received all the attention and was showered with spontaneous gifts from my mother who lived in Cleveland, Ohio while I stayed with my grandma back in Ghana. One day my mom called and announced the news that I will have a younger sister. A year after she was born, my mom was expecting again. I arrived in America during the winter of 2012. And my siblings were finally introduced to their immaculate big sister they had heard so much about. They fell in love with me instantly, but I still held a little grudge on my end thinking about the attention they stole from me. Few weeks later, I understood what being the first born meant. Responsibilities were handed to me on a silver platter. I ran helter skelter with my day to day activities. Sleeping until 11 am on the weekends became nearly impossible when my day started the minute the first child woke up. However, as time went on, these responsibilities became a mere bother. With a growth mindset, I familiarized myself in this new situation and became comfortable. I transformed from a formerly pampered, carefree kid to an adult. My behavior mellowed towards my siblings, which consequently, amplified my characteristics of care and kindness. Being a big sister didn't come with a manual, but I am proud to say I figured it out. They motivate and inspire me daily to be the best I can be. And that’s another characteristic of a leader. Not only do they impact the lives of others, but they learn from the changes that happens around them. My siblings have indirectly constructed a leader and commander who will be of service to them whenever