Leadership Skills...

Leadership 101

What is Leadership?

There are literally hundreds of definitions for leadership and people spend years figuring out how to teach it or if people just have that “IT” factor.

In 2000, Ms. Foundation did a study on leadership and said the following:

“Girls can change the world.  When we heed their voices, give them a safe and validating space to go, and value than for who they are and what they can do, girls and young women are indeed a mighty force for change—in their own lives, in their communities and in the world beyond.”

The NM Girls Institute echoes the Ms. Foundation conclusion.  The Institute’s purpose to give you the tools they need to create that change — whether you are planning your goals for tomorrow, next year or ten years from now.  The Institute is a resource to all New Mexico girls as you develop your dreams into goals and encounter challenges. 

We want every girl in New Mexico to realize her full potential — a potential that she defines for herself.

And, all the while, listening to you.There are different kinds of leadership.  There is:

1. 1.Leadership of the moment - taking charge during an emergency.
   

2. 2.Leadership by example - you set a good example in your family, with your friends and in your school. 
   

3. 3.Community leadership - You become the president of the school council, youth leader in your church, a chair of a local charity work group.
   

4. 4.Job leadership - You direct others, organize and supervise other's work and activities.
   

5. 5.Trailblazing leadership - you take on new challenges in unchartered waters.  You may invent new things, set new records or start a new business.
   

Key Concepts

There are some key concepts as to what makes a good leader.

1. 1.Good leaders know who they are.
   

2. 2.Good leaders are willing to commit and follow through on their commitments.
   

3. 3.Good leaders know they don't know everything.
   

4. 4.Good leaders are willing to look at different ways to tackle problems and accomplish tasks.
   

5. 5.Good leader go the extra mile.
   

What are the skills needed to be a good leader?

1. 1.Integrity (honesty)
   

2. 2.Communication Skills
   

3. 3.Healthy Self-Esteem
   

4. 4.Creative Thinking
   

5. 5.Listening Skills
   

6. 6.Work with Diverse Groups as a Team
   

7. 7.Ability to Set a Good Example
   

8. 8.Open to Learning New Things
   

9. 9.Recognize Talents in Others
   

10. 10.Effective Management of Time and People
    

As you can see, many of these leadership skills are skills that serve everyone, even in non-leadership positions.  Developing any of these skills will make you better at making decisions about school, family, friendships, relationships, and your future.

Being a Leader in Your Own Life

When you think of a leader, who comes to mind?  President of the United States perhaps or someone in your neighborhood with influence?  The NM Girls Institute recognizes that not all girls want to become leaders of corporations or become the next head of state but developing leadership skills will help you becomg LEADERS IN YOUR OWN LIVES.  Most importantly girls who are leaders are less likely to "go along with the pack" and can make the best decision for their lives.