Foundations of Leadership

Throughout my time in Foundations of Leadership, I gained a deeper understanding of leadership adaptability and self-awareness. Before this course, I viewed leadership through a more singular lens, but studying different theories and applications helped me realize the importance of situational leadership. I now adjust my leadership style based on the needs of my team, especially in times of change. I have individuals who require high support and guidance, while others thrive with autonomy. Understanding where each person is in their development has allowed me to coach, support, and challenge them in ways that foster both individual and team growth. Additionally, the emphasis on authentic leadership reinforced the importance of trust and self-awareness. I have been more intentional in fostering open and vulnerable conversations, ensuring that my team members feel heard and valued. By building trust and demonstrating authenticity, I have created an environment where my team feels empowered to share ideas, take initiative, and collaborate more effectively. These insights have directly impacted how I develop and support my team, helping them become more engaged, confident, and successful in their roles.

Looking back on my Student Leadership Practices Inventory (SLPI) 360 assessment nearly two years later, I can see how the insights I gained have shaped my growth as a leader. At the time, I was surprised by the areas where my team’s feedback differed from my self-perception, particularly in relationship-building, celebrating accomplishments, and following through on commitments. While I believed I was fostering strong connections and recognizing my team’s successes, the assessment revealed gaps that I hadn’t fully acknowledged. Since then, I have been more intentional about building trust, ensuring everyone feels valued, and following up on commitments in a way that reinforces accountability and reliability. This reflection reminds me that leadership is a continuous journey, and self-awareness is only valuable if it leads to meaningful action. The assessment was a humbling but necessary checkpoint in my leadership development, and its lessons still influence how I lead today.