Leadership - Blog #12 - SBN Samantha
By definition, leadership is "the action of leading a group of people or an organization." Pretty simple if you think about it; anyone can be a leader. However, what does it mean to be a good leader, and more specifically, what does it mean to be a leader at DMA? I'm posing this question because there are times when I see missed opportunities for leadership, and perhaps a misunderstanding as to the values and mindset of what it means to be a leader at DMA.
When we put on our uniforms and belts, no matter the color, we are immediately put into the spotlight as a leader. When we step off the mat, that leadership role remains. The way we behave, the conversations we have with others, and the simple things we say in passing or in front of classes can and will be an example to others.
I personally have caught myself complaining, and kinda whining, about sparring in front of others at DMA, and every single time I find myself regretting that behavior. Regardless of my personal feelings and opinions of sparring, I should probably keep my complaints to myself, or save it for Nick. There may be another student who is struggling with sparring, and hearing me complain about having to do it will not help them overcome whatever obstacle they are facing. In fact, it could lead them to think that complaining and whining is acceptable behavior for a Black Belt.
My point is that we must always be aware of how our behavior could influence those who look to us as leaders. It's also important that we, as a group of leaders at DMA, define what it means to be a Black Belt at DMA. An example I've recently noticed: who should start the warm-up for Black Belt class? Answer: any one of us. It doesn't have to be KJN Jeremy, and it doesn't have to be the highest ranking belt. I challenge the Black Belts at DMA to take the lead; if you are the first one out there on the floor, collect cards and get things moving with some light cardio and dynamic stretching.
There are more examples I'd love to discuss with everyone, so I propose we have a Black Belt Retreat at my house after this test is over.
When we put on our uniforms and belts, no matter the color, we are immediately put into the spotlight as a leader. When we step off the mat, that leadership role remains. The way we behave, the conversations we have with others, and the simple things we say in passing or in front of classes can and will be an example to others.
I personally have caught myself complaining, and kinda whining, about sparring in front of others at DMA, and every single time I find myself regretting that behavior. Regardless of my personal feelings and opinions of sparring, I should probably keep my complaints to myself, or save it for Nick. There may be another student who is struggling with sparring, and hearing me complain about having to do it will not help them overcome whatever obstacle they are facing. In fact, it could lead them to think that complaining and whining is acceptable behavior for a Black Belt.
My point is that we must always be aware of how our behavior could influence those who look to us as leaders. It's also important that we, as a group of leaders at DMA, define what it means to be a Black Belt at DMA. An example I've recently noticed: who should start the warm-up for Black Belt class? Answer: any one of us. It doesn't have to be KJN Jeremy, and it doesn't have to be the highest ranking belt. I challenge the Black Belts at DMA to take the lead; if you are the first one out there on the floor, collect cards and get things moving with some light cardio and dynamic stretching.
There are more examples I'd love to discuss with everyone, so I propose we have a Black Belt Retreat at my house after this test is over.
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