Passing the Punch Bowl Test

As a little girl I was a really passive person. More of what you may call a follower than a leader. I was a really shy and tended to follow my close friends around and do whatever they wanted to do instead of leading them and having a strong opinion of what I wanted to do. I was the first to say "Oh I don’t care what we do. You can decide”.

I still am that way to a large extent today, but what I’ve realized is that I too can be a good leader (and so can you!) even if you think you can’t because you are shy or what not. Sometimes I think we misinterpret the definition of a good leader. The childhood rumors and feelings of “leaders” being the clique leaders and being the “boss” is simply not the definition of a good leader. I think as children especially, we view “leaders” and “authority” to be intimidating and overbearing. I never pictured myself as being a leader until recently because I always had an image of a leader being some extremely extroverted and outgoing person that took control.

What I’ve come to realize is that I can be a leader, even as an introvert (and so can you!) whether you’re more like me or more of an extrovert. Being a good leader has little to do with how outgoing you are. It has all the more to do with your character. What I am coming to learn through working with different leaders, friends, and directors in my life is that a good leader is someone who is considerate and aware of what’s going on with their followers, courageous, and has strong character (they always do the right thing even when that may be difficult). They take into consideration everyone’s feelings and then make a decision that they feel is best for the group. A good leader is never overbearing or inconsiderate.

My favorite question: Think about the punch bowl test. What are three character traits you’d most want to be remembered for at a future high school reunion?

My response: friendly, compassionate, and encouraging

Challenge: How can you lead by serving others today? (question 5) How can you be a light today that will cause others to look at you and say “hey, let’s follow her!”