I was driving my son to the supermarket and he asked me a random question. He said, “mommy, what do you want to be when you grow up”? He said, “I want to be a police man with super power. Mommy, maybe you can be a superhero too and have super power”. As I was smiling and continuing to drive, I was thinking if I did have these super power, what type of a super hero would I want to become?
I would use my power to create an awesome transformational leader. This charismatic leader will empower others and help them to change. She will focus her efforts on making everyone feel important and valuable. This leader will empower others and give them an opportunity to freely try new ideas. This leader will be seen as a great role model and listen to opposing viewpoints. This leader will create a vision for the future. This leader will also focus on mentoring others and focus on growing talent. This transformational leader will also care about people’s needs, values, and morals. This leader will not be selfish. This leader will inspire people to achieve their dreams and goals. This leader will be trusted by others.
I hope one day, I can become this type of a leader for my children. I want them to never forget how special they are. I want them to learn, try new ideas and never stop exploring. I want them to have a vision. I want them to understand their strengths and use them to their best abilities. I want them to achieve their goals and dreams. I want them to be thankful for what they have and never take it for granted. I want them to trust me and know that I will always be there for them no matter what. I want them to have good morals and ethics. I want them to love life.
I believe that great leaders inspire a shared vision. I hope I am always listening to my children’s dreams and show them how their dreams can be true. I’ll end this blog with one of my favorite quote…
Allison Furfine says
I think that having a skill to successfully empower others is the most desirable skill. I loved the post about your child, and I’m sure that you are empowering him every day! I think that the school systems and parents have become extremely progressive over the years. There is less structure, less “set rules” and children have the freedom to do what they want and express themselves. The most important thing that you mentioned was trust. If you develop trust with your child, they will always believe what you say and that they can achieve great things.
Patti Jean Keith says
The title of your blog caught my eye. I am 56 years old and still have no idea what I want to be when I grow up! I had a career in human services for more than 30 years. I have been married for more than 30 years. And, I have raised six children – ages 18 to more than 30 years. Where do I go from here?
I believe that I was an “awesome” transformational leader in my old job (others may say differently – note that I am no longer there). But, I knew that job and the organization like the back of my hand. My fear is that I might not be such a good leader in a new job where I don’t have the confidence and competence that comes from years of experience. Luckily, God always plops me down exactly where I am supposed to be at any given time, and then tells me to make it work. So, far that is what I have done. I don’t worry too much about the future, but the uncertainty is a real pain in the ass!
So, I can relate to your fears about being a great leader for your children. I could say “don’t worry,” but that’s what mothers do. I have faith in you! I was inspired and motivated by your blog, so clearly you are already a transformational leader. Your children are truly blessed.