It might be a little bit daunting at the outset, but standing up and becoming a leader in your community can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do.
Local government is where you can make real and positive change in your community.
So no matter your age or background please do consider standing up, sharing your voice and nominating as a candidate this coming election.
Listening to those in your community who have great ideas for improvement, collaboration, engagement and positive steps in new directions is a great start.
Knowing what to do with these ideas and vision is part of the challenge and joy of being a leader.
Advocating for your community is an important way to serve the community. This means making your fellow decision makers aware of problems, and collaboratively working out how these issues may be addressed.
Strategic thinking and planning skills are useful in serving as a leader. Being informed about the options, weighing up the pros and cons and being flexible and open minded in discussions are also part of the robust process of ensuring good decisions are made.
Being flexible and patient through the process is a big part of the leadership journey. There will be compromises, however, ensuring that you can stay true to your personal convictions will help you along the way. Being self-aware is also a big part of this – knowing your own strengths and weaknesses, and owning these, will help you come across as an authentic leader.
