Leadership is the ability for an individual to guide other individuals, teams, or entire organizations to a common goal. For budding entrepreneurs, it's important to reflect on the qualities of successful leaders in order to create products and services that defy norms and improve people's lives. There are many different approaches to leadership—share with your students and help them find their own style of leadership!
Thought Leaders
Thought leaders harness the power of ideas to create change. They motivate their followers by helping them imagine new possibilities. Thought leaders use the Internet, social media, and other technological advances to communicate their ideas more rapidly and broadly. One way to teach your students to become thought leaders is to have them think outside the box to find solutions to everyday problems.
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Steve Jobs was the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Apple Inc., where he oversaw the development of the iMac, iTunes, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and numerous other innovations. He has been referred to as the “Father of the Digital Revolution,” “a master of innovation,” and “the master evangelist of the digital age.” |
Courageous Leaders
Courageous leaders bravely pursue an idea that goes against trends and norms. They have strong convictions about their purpose, long-term goals, and what is right and wrong. They speak up for their core beliefs and fight for their values, even when their stand is unpopular. Students can develop courageous leadership skills in a trusting environment where they are most comfortable to voice their opinions without the fear of retaliation.
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Rosa Parks was an African-American civil rights activist, who the U.S. Congress called “the first lady of civil rights” and “the mother of the freedom movement.” On December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, AL, she refused to obey the bus driver’s order that she give up her seat to a white passenger. Her great courage marked a pivotal point in the Civil Rights Movement. |
Inspirational Leaders
Inspirational leaders promote change with their passionate commitment to ideas. Their words encourage others’ spirits, strengthen convictions, and move others to action. Inspirational leaders have positive attitudes that create strong emotional connections with people. Their can-do attitude keeps hope alive during difficult times. Have your students brainstorm ideas they are passionate about and work with others to highlight their strengths when producing a solution
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Pat Summitt was the leader of the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball program for 38 years. She was known as an intense, demanding, focused, determined, and inspiring coach. She compiled an amazing record of 1,098 wins and 208 losses, winning eight NCAA national championships along the way. |
Servant Leaders
Servant leaders care deeply about people. They seek to remove the barriers and obstacles that hold others back from achieving their full potential. They strive to create an environment where their followers can do their best work.
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Oprah Winfrey is the chairman of Harpo Inc. Her focus is helping others succeed. Many of her TV programs and outreach initiatives are aimed at removing obstacles, so people from difficult life circumstances can achieve their potential. Her goal is to empower people to achieve their dreams. |
If you're interested in helping your students develop their own style of creative, entrepreneurial leadership, be sure to check out our free curriculum! You'll find easy-to-follow lessons plans and supporting materials to help inspire and teach your students.
