Ready

I'm in a reflective mood. It may have a lot to do with it being the middle of another inspiring year. But it also has a lot to do with a simple response I've heard from one particular Year 6 student over the past few months.

"The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary." - Vince Lombardi

Each week she enthusiastically came bounding into the room. Her energy remained infectious right throughout each of the program experiences (our L.E.A.D. with Me Program is facilitated over 10 weeks). She, and the three class groups I am referring to here, were truly amazing to learn, grow and contribute with. But back to her simple response that's had me reflecting.

"Of course leaders are born. Then they are made." - Anonymous

When I greeted her each week with, 'How are you?', she always replied, 'Ready to be a leader!' At first I didn't think much of it. I found it fun. But as the weeks went on its significance started to resonate deeply with me. She was locked in.

“Leaders aren’t born, they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work. And that’s the price we’ll have to pay to achieve that goal, or any goal.” – Vince Lombardi

What I love most about going on leadership journeys like these with groups is embracing the full spectrum of learning. Just because we (individually and/or collectively) are locked in, doesn't mean we become immune to challenge, struggle, uncertainty and conflict. But by showing up 'ready', we give ourselves every advantage to be able to respond, rather than react, when we encounter these potential growth opportunities.

"Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Thank you to all the inspiring individuals and groups we're privileged to lead with. I've loved reading this groups messages over the past week, I'm so filled with gratitude for the impact these learners/leaders have had on me. I've included a few below. Thank you to all the 85 students who took the time to share their thoughts, reflections and illustrations of what leadership means to them.

'Dear Cameron, Thank you for helping us grow in being great leaders. I have changed a lot over the past few months.'

'Dear Cameron, Thank you for inspiring me to chase my dreams and to never give up. It's people like you that make the world a better place.'

'Dear Cameron, Thank you so much. I know during L.E.A.D. I am a bit quiet but it is because I am so busy soaking in all the inspiration, and trying to put it into my own doings. I love how you express leadership.'