Wednesday, March 21, 2007

What Makes You A Leader? Part 2

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www.SuccessNetworkGroup.com


  • What is a leader?

  • How do you become one?

  • Can YOU really make a difference?

  • How would you do that?


  • This series of articles are based on just one of many personal development courses in our Learning Center and highlights the main points of the course. The course itself was based on Sheila Murray Bethel's book titled "Making a Difference, 12 Qualities That Make You a Leader". The book can be found in paperback at Amazon.com for as little as $0.01 plus shipping (used).

    A leader has a mission that matters. To start becoming a leader, you must select a mission that will be your platform to make a difference.

    So how do you choose what your mission will be? Well, first you have to understand the scope of a mission. Most people will spend a good portion of their lives working toward, or working on, making a difference within their chosen mission. This is not normally achieved on a short-term basis. Usually people are stimulated by something that surrounds them; something in their environment. This could be in your work, personal life, or past experiences and it drives you into action. They become passionate about it through a vision of improvement in people's lives and that passion becomes their motivation.

    A mission is not pre-defined. There are no restrictions and nothing is off-limits. You create your mission and there are no barriers. Leaders are everywhere. They are just like you and want to make a contribution. Their mission might be more low-key than those of world leaders, but they are still just as important!

    Some basic concepts to remember as you define your mission are:

  • You're not too old, too young, too smart, too dumb, etc. to have a mission! Anyone can have a mission!


  • There is NO reason why you shouldn't get started right now! Don't procrastinate!


  • Whatever you CAN do makes a difference. Don't feel like you can't do enough!


  • As your mission evolves so will you. And your ability to make a difference will grow with you.


  • The difference between people who are energetic and those who lead others through a mission is that successful, energetic people usually influence others as they push toward their OWN goals. True leaders use their drive and ambition to lead people in pursuit of a larger goal and a greater good than just their own success and ambition.

    A word of caution as you start your journey to find and commit to a mission is that you can't allow yourself to become disheartened! Stay relaxed and let your open mind and attitude help you to find acceptable solutions. Sometimes the answers will come to you form the most unexpected places!

    Also, be aware that the process of leadership and dedication to your chosen mission will require some level of personal sacrifice. There is ALWAYS a price to pay; sometimes a larger price than others. Some days you will be on top of the world. Other days you'll be at the bottom of the heap, beat down and almost broken. Don't get discouraged!

    You will find yourself receiving a lot of criticism from others who don't believe in your mission or doubt your ability to help. Sometimes they will even envy you but won't let on to their feelings. Ignore them and keep pushing forward ... stay focused!

    If you want to make the world a better place, keep in mind that big things come from small beginnings. The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. Don't expect result overnight ... it takes time. In the mean time, pat yourself on the back for having the courage to take the stand and initiative. This alone will make you a better leader and help you to make a difference.

    Watch for Part 3 to be posted tomorrow!

    As Always ... Make it a GREAT day!

    About the Author:

    Lou and Robin Bonaventura have been Professional
    Network Marketers for the past 4 years. They attribute
    much of their success to personal development and
    consistent learning. Visit their Learning Center
    for more insight into how personal development can
    benefit you.

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