WALKING TOGETHER, NOT AHEAD

Written By: Ayuni Karunatilaka

 When I think about leadership I do not see someone standing at the front giving orders. For me leadership is something quieter and more personal. It is about inspiring the people around me by being genuine, trustworthy and being ready to take responsibility. Not just when things go well but also especially when they do not. I have learned that leadership is not about having everything figured out. It is about listening carefully, understanding where others are coming from and helping the team move forward together. It is easy to think leadership means simply being the loudest and

being in control but to be honest it is about creating a space where everyone feels safe to share their ideas and grow. I personally have been both the quite member and the one who always talks depending on how comfortable the team makes me feel, so I know how important it is to have that trust. That trust is what turns a group of individuals into a team. for me being a good leader means showing up with commitment and honesty, even when it is tough or not convenient. When people see you putting the effort and sticking with it, they are more likely to follow your lead. Leadership is not about what you say. It about what you do and how you show you care. Another part of leadership that maters to me is helping others grow. There is something really rewarding about supporting someone to find their strengths and encouraging them to take on challenges they thought were out of reach. Leadership is about the lighting the path without blocking the way and giving people confidence to step up on their own. I am still learning what it truly means to be a leader, and I believe the learning would never end. To me leadership is being encouraging. It is about walking together with others and not leading from in front.