Did you know that leadership traits begin to emerge in children ages 6-10? That's right. From the beginning, leader traits and qualities in young children are being formed, not only in a child's brain, but their personality and behavior.
I believe we have a very narrow understanding of what makes a genuine leader. Leadership is learned ... just like optimism. Leaders are shaped over time, of course, through experiences, work, responsibilities and acts for the common good. You can tell a true leader by what they do, not merely by what they say. I believe we are facing a crisis of leadership today, and we need to re-think, re-invigorate, and re-establish value based leadership, starting with kids.
When envisioning leaders, think of basic leadership qualities they should possess. How many leaders do you know?
- Visionary
- Trustworthy
- Responsible
- Inventive
- Committed
- Wise
- Good communicator
- Sense of right and wrong
- Respectful
- Inner-directed