Interview Reflection

In interviewing Mrs. Lyon I learned a great deal about leadership and as a result I have a better outlook on what it takes to be a leader. Mrs. Lyon reinforced the idea that in order to be a great leader one has to be a great listener as well. In listening to others a leader shows that he/she is no better than the people they lead. Mrs. Lyon also stressed that a good leader shows humility.
Humility is a common characteristic among the local leaders the class has interviewed. I think the reason humility is such a vital characteristic among good leaders lies in the fact people only want to follow those who represent their ideals and character. In displaying humility a leader shows he/she is only as important as those he leads. More people are drawn to this attitude because it offers the insurance that they will be listened to and heard. Another aspect of a good leader is perseverance.
There is no doubt that as a leader one will come across many challenges and difficulties. According to Mrs. Lyon one of the key traits in being a good leader is "to take risks and be willing to learn from your failures". I think the willingness to take risks and accept the consequences is what prevents everyone from becoming a leader. Most people are unwilling to gamble or take chances even if it is something they are passionate about. The people who are willing to take those risks have the grit and mindset to lead others in a common goal.
I have learned a lot from my interview with Mrs. Lyon. I now have examples from real leaders in the community on what traits are necessary in becoming a good leader. In broad terms a good leader is a very responsible person. A person who shows humility and the ability to accept the consequences of their actions is a responsible person. I think if one were to look at all the good leaders of past and present they would find that all of them were very responsible people.