THE EDGE OF LEADERSHIP

ELVIRA TUAZON DUNGCA

“A leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”- John Maxwell We all have different answers, surely, if asked, “What do you dream to be in the future”? Youngsters might probably say an astronaut on the space or a burger- maker under the sea or other things they encounter on televisions and gadgets. Older people will have firmer answers — more realistic answers. Goals change. However, a naturally born leader has a clear vision to his/ her destination. A leader simply knows the way.

People tend to be risk averse as age progresses. Most of the time, we normally choose to stop or remain in our comfort zones when w see a slight chance that our vision will be a failure. So who is not afraid of failure? Who is ready to take risks? A leader is. Leaders are brave to take all the responsibilities, to face all the consequences with deliberate plan and taking actions. A leader knows the way, but still, goes that way.

It doesn’t end there. A leader inspires his/her followers/subordinates to a shared vision. He/ She walks with them and reject to get ahead of them. He/ She fosters environment, which empowers his/ her colleagues to use their capacities and skills to the fullest. He/ She joins them in their triumphs and tribulations. He/ Shes show them how they can all reach the destination. Therefore, a true leader shows the way.

A great leader is a servant leader. To serve is to sacrifice. The decisions a leader face often involves of giving up something in order to gain something. He/ She thinks and prioritizes the well-being of his/ her subordinates ahead of his/ her own needs. He/ She leads them to their fullest potentials and let them grow the best persons they can be. Being able to face moments of challenging decision making and to choose the hard path of sacrifice define the greatest leaders in history. He/ She sets out to make a difference- a POSITIVE DIFFERENCE.

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The author is Teacher III at Porac Model Community High School