Exemplary Leadership- What’s it all about? FCCLA has adopted the Student Leadership Challenge as part of its leadership training. This has 5 Exemplary Leadership Traits.
Model the Way– Do you set a high standard for yourself? Figure out what is important to you. Do you set an example by aligning your actions with shared values? For example- it is a shared value to work as a team. Do you do everything you can to help your teammates succeed?
Inspire a Shared Vision– Do you enlist others to share your collective aspirations? How often do you use the word “we”? Leaders breathe life into the hopes and dreams of others.
Challenge the Process- be innovative, learn from your mistakes. Leaders know well that innovation and change require them to experiment and take risks. Great leaders are great learners.
Enable Others to Act- Encourage cooperation to promote cooperative goals and build trust. Leadership is a team effort. Make heroes of other people. When you make someone feel strong and capable, that person will give all and exceed expectations.
Encourage the Heart– Create a spirit of community. Genuine acts of caring uplift the spirits and draw people forward.
If you want to become a better leader, study your own performance and become conscious of choices that you are making and how you are acting on your intentions.
How? By reflecting and thinking about your approach to leadership. The best leaders spend time reflecting and examining what they have done and are planning to do.
Resources: Check out books by James Kouzes and Barry Posner. Do the Leadership STAR Event.