Tamasia J and Leadership

What makes me a productive leader? What can still be improved?

Thinking about this question, it makes me think about when I began to start a step club at Chatham. One of my positive qualities is being able to take an idea, make it a reality and have people excited about it. At the same time, there were many other people who were against starting a step club at Chatham, because they just thought it was not possible. Little did they know, it is not possible because I would be told no, or because people do not want to do it, it is because of conflicting schedules... so HA!

Anyway, this was a challenge for me. As much as I LOVED {not so much anymore, thanks Chatham (just kidding)} stepping, I was excited and passionate about stepping. When a leader is passionate about something, it shows and it makes it easier to inspire a shared vision (see, I pay attention). After being oh-so-very-passionate and patient, the step club was finally approved! Sounds good, right? Well, the hard part began.

There were conflicting schedules, lack of commitment, lack of enthusiasm... just a lack in many areas. What was I to do? KEEP TRYING! I am productive because I kept trying. I made changes to practice dates, practice times, even practice locations just to keep the energy flowing between the steppers and myself.

In short, I am productive because I do not settle for one way. If it does not work, I do not give up. I also am not a dictator. I ask everyone what they want, so they can have some input. I also try to lead with a smile on my face, even though sometimes I do not feel like smiling.

Some things I need to work on -this is what I always say- slowing down when I speak. When I get excited about something, it just comes out WAY TOO FAST! That doesn't really qualify as leadership, but effectively communicating is majorly important. But, so far it has not come in the way. There are moments when I can just tell when the words are going to come out jumbled and I figure out a different way to say it. So, I am working on it!