Celeste Summer

My new entrepreneur magazine arrived in the mail today and got me feeling oddly motivated at 8pm on a Friday. The title of the issue was the leadership edition and it had me thinking - there are actually many types of leaders: task-oriented, people-oriented, directive, motivational, visionary, delegating, coercive, authoritarian, uniting, democratic…but what type of person makes up a leader in this day and age?

From a reading a recent Forbes article, the topic of a feminine and masculine leader was discussed. Now this doesn't come down to whether or not this leader is male or female, in fact the two traits are quite ambiguous and often times over lap one another. There are two ends of the spectrum, a leader can be abrasive and forceful or caring and relationship oriented - or heck, both.

However, in a recent Forbes article I stumbled across there was particular attention on Feminine leadership qualities and the idea that we are no longer looking to be directed in a way we use to.

Now when I say more "feminine," I am referring to traits such as trustworthy, articulate, helpful, flexible, and empathetic as opposed to traits known as "masculine" such as, dominant, strong, arrogant, rigid, analytical, proud and logical. These may be seemingly apparent, but if we look back in time it's clear that masculine leading was more likely to happen and feminine traits weren't valued as important.

Like I said, nowadays leaders have stemmed away from those masculine traits and have intertwined the feminine values. Leaders today are more intrinsically connected to their employees and individuals have been more apt to taking a liking towards those who place value on interpersonal relationship within the workplace. I also found it interesting that the leaders also promote collaborative thinking and encourages innovative feedback from individuals. The more ideas flowing the better! This chance for an individual having the ability to think creatively and contribute innovative ideas not only promotes continual growth, but also allows them to feel appreciated, have a sense of worth and connected with the group.

This is only a small glance of leadership in the workplace or just within teams in general, but it's extremely interesting to notice the shift in leadership trends. We always hear the word "leader" but taking the time to truly look into what and how a team grows is inspiring to say the least. Remember, you don't have to be great to start, you just have to start to be great.

Jump into a leadership role today in whatever it may be that you do. Create your personal identity. Follow those who are successful, but take into consideration the multitude of various strategies to guide a team and make it your own.  Encourage feedback from those around you, continue to stay emotionally intelligent and don't get to lost in your role.

-- now speaking of Entrepreneurs and self made success,  I have to give a shootout to the homie at Bluntd Athletics, Chi Hom who threw me this pom pom beanie and mirrored sunglasses. He's built a killer street style line that has gained it's name for one of my favorite beanie go-to's here in San Diego. For the dudes, they have some of my favorite pocket tee's and backpacks.