When discussing leadership, it is often connected with an individual holding a specific position or title. Yet, leadership is more than having a formal role. You can demonstrate leadership in your daily campus life whether you pursue formal titles and roles or not. Especially during your early years of college, you may want to get involved on campus as a participant before you jump into leadership. That is OK and even wise. However, you can still practice leadership through your words, actions and, most importantly, your character.
CU Boulder offers students many opportunities to pursue leadership roles through programs, student organizations, on-campus jobs and more. Whether you are ready to jump into a designated leadership role or not, here are ways to exemplify being a leader.
Practice empathy
Leaders empathize with the experiences and perspectives of others. When you seek to listen and understand diverse points of view, you help foster an inclusive environment and help those around you feel valued and included.
Practical ways to apply empathy as you demonstrate leadership can include allowing others to speak first in a group meeting and actively listening without interruption. It may involve attending cultural events on campus to support diverse communities and gain understanding and knowledge. It can also be as simple as asking someone sitting alone in the dining hall if you can join them. These empathic actions can serve as an example that encourages others to follow your lead and promote compassion and inclusion.
Take accountability
When you take accountability for your actions and decisions, you demonstrate leadership as part of your character. Taking accountability builds trust and credibility. It can allow others to see your example of responsibility and create a brave space for them to be responsible.
This can look like apologizing for words or actions that caused harm or asking to redo a project you didn’t put the required effort into at your on-campus job. Accountability comes in many forms, but at the core, it promotes honesty and clear communication to acknowledge areas that need improvement and promote a path to remediation.
Advocate for change
Whether you drive change or work to get others to accept it, change requires adaptability. You can demonstrate leadership by recognizing where improvements are needed and then taking action to recommend or implement those changes. You don’t have to hold a position of authority to promote change.
For example, the Dean of Students’ office encourages students to reach out and offer ideas for improvements or innovations to campus life. You can call at 303-492-9048 or email at deanofstudents@colorado.edu. Sharing your well-thought-out ideas can help you become more comfortable presenting your thoughts to those in a position to implement change.
Assume positive intent
Each person at CU Boulder is responsible for creating the environment they want to experience on campus. That includes treating each other with respect, even during disagreements or conflict. You can demonstrate leadership by assuming positive intent when interacting with others. While there are times when someone may not have positive intent, starting from a place of goodwill can often prevent misunderstandings and conflict.
This can look like asking clarifying questions when you feel wronged or offended. For example, if you are working on a group project and a team member doesn’t complete their work in time for the team meeting, you can ask what happened and allow them to explain before responding in frustration. If they have trouble understanding the assignment, you could point them to tutoring resources or offer to work together. The team can then maintain a positive working relationship, which can help produce a better project and build stronger relationships.
Promote excellence
Part of demonstrating leadership is having high standards for yourself. You can promote excellence within your sphere of influence. This can include your residence hall, student organization, classes or student job. When you do your best and take responsibility for your quality of work, you can elevate the standards for those around you.
You can promote excellence by showing up and working hard in classes, activities and programs. For example, be on time and give your full effort to your intramural sports team practice. Or do your assignments and reading to be ready to participate in class discussions. These small actions not only demonstrate your character but can also encourage others to do the same.
Develop a leadership mindset
Whether in a leadership role or not, you can have a leadership mindset and incorporate leadership characteristics into your experience at CU Boulder. Your daily practice of demonstrating leadership can help you succeed in future opportunities.
You can experience personal growth, skill development, enhanced relationships and an overall improved college experience. These practices and characteristics can help you shine as you seek official leadership positions during college, search for jobs and internships, and move into life after college.
Learn more about the resources, departments and programs available to help you get involved and grow at CU Boulder.