Praised are those who demonstrate exceptional leadership in times of need. Success stories can be found in various areas: businesses, professional sports teams, government offices, and especially on our own campus. Remarkable leaders are heralded for their ability to execute while under immense pressure. They deserve recognition for their efforts because, in the end, they are handling a difficult job for which most would be unfit. This circumstance reveals one truth of being a good leader: it is hard.
The world needs strong leaders who are willing to rise to the occasion and face our most difficult challenges. As bright, young college students, we are tasked with building the future. Are you ready?
Why Being a Good Leader Is Hard
How many times have you made a decision that you knew deep down was right, even when it was met with sharp criticism by others? This pressure to appease the group weighs heavily in our minds. It has been well-established that good leaders must earn the trust and respect of their counterparts. This truth often means finding ways to satisfy as many people as possible. When you’re tasked with making a difficult choice, you risk alienating yourself from part or all of the group. The truth is, you cannot please everyone. You have to be firm in your belief. But, how do you really know you’re making the right decision?
It’s Not Always Simple
I will not provide you with a clear answer; it is impossible for one answer to fit every situation. You must be able to recognize what is at stake and consider the consequences of each option. If you are the leader of a weekly chess club that is deciding between ordering pepperoni or sausage pizza and you are the only one who wants Hawaiian, I think it’s fair to let the group win. However, if you are a manager and have to let go of a popular employee who is harming the company’s culture, you have a fine line to walk. You have made every attempt to reason with the employee and work with them to improve performance. This employee is a shrewd social entrepreneur and knows how to charm coworkers in the office. Do you fire the employee and risk upsetting the office, or do you let them stay and further poison the work environment?
Conclusion
At some point, you might find yourself in a similar position. In college, this story might be paralleled in a fraternity or sorority. There is a member whose behaviors are not reflective of the chapter’s expectations, but they have powerful social capital with a majority of the members. It is not always easy, but there is courage within each of us that we must find. I encourage you to consider your values and remain true to them despite the pressures you may face. If you don’t develop this ability now, then when?
