The Ideal Leader
To me, it is difficult to confidently define every aspect of an ideal leader. Everyone has different viewpoints and opinions on what leaders are, so there isn’t a true correct answer. However, there are many qualities that a student in Ripon High’s Leadership program should strive to have. For one, a student leader needs to be motivated. If someone doesn’t truly want to do something, why would you trust them to do it? In order to push out the best work possible, leaders must have some sort of motivation and that desire to do their best, no matter what. Another great quality of an ideal leader is professionalism. This includes respecting teachers and adults, dressing professionally, having the ability to effectively speak publicly, managing paperwork and finances, and so much more. Leaders must also have good time management skills; with the immense amount of work we have to do, being able to balance everything is key. Even though these are all great skills leaders must have, probably one of the most important ones is connection and growth. RHS Leadership students, in order to truly lead at this school, need to inspire those around them. In order to inspire, we must build connections, and be outgoing as well. True leaders don’t just lead to get something done; they lead to inspire the people around them to lead as well.