Know Your Strengths and WeaknessesThroughout history, there have been many great leaders. The qualities in which these individuals’ poses have long intrigued mankind as have the origin. Laurie Beth Jones, author of Jesus CEO, puts before the reader one of the first leaders, Jesus. During the course of the reading, the author points to events, both good and bad, and what Jesus did while faced with challenges. The reading opened with a quote that resonates throughout the readings in class; “If you have not been tested by fire, you do not know who you are. And if you do not know who you are, you cannot be a leader.” This thought in itself is not ground breaking, but it seems to be an area in which all people struggle. To error is human. All of us have faults yet we find it difficult to admit out failings. Leaders should allow experiences help shape who they are; in turn better knowing thyself and believing in ones abilities. In order to believe in yourself, you must first know who you are and what you stand for. No doubt we have all experienced those around us who believe in themselves and exude self confidence that you are inherently drawn to them for help and advice. I met my husband sixteen years ago and from the beginning, I felt that these above mentioned traits are what I was drawn to and wished that I had those same qualities. As a teenager, I was like other kids my age, I did not know who I was and therefore unequipped to believe in myself. My husband and I started our family at a very young age and trying to complete high school was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. I became alienated from my peers and ridiculed for the decisions I had made. I felt ill-equipped to deal with the pressures and thought about quitting school on many occasions. During my pregnancy, I spent a lot of time getting to know myself and learning to overcome adversity. My husband was pivotal in this journey. He encouraged me to believe in myself, as he did, when nobody else did. I ended up walking with my senior class with honors. As I was preparing to walk across the stage to receive my diploma, I insisted on having my son walk with me, he was one at the time. Because of him, I knew who I was. I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and as we were walking, a roar of applause came from my classmates; those who did not believe in me for the last two years. Many of the characteristics highlighted in the first section of the book can not only be found great leaders both past and present but in ourselves. Inherently, these qualities are built into our being. Leaders are able to understand the situation and reach within themselves to choose the best tools to achieve results. Resources for Managing People and the Workplace
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