My Journey to Understanding Leadership

By Moqheeta Mehboob

When I first contemplated the concept of leadership, I envisioned public figures or individuals in positions of authority. To me, leaders were separate from ordinary people, embodying authority and control over others. They could be heads of state, community leaders, or even managers in various settings. However, my perspective underwent a profound transformation after attending Sadatullah sir's leadership workshop.

The workshop, spanning 75 intense and engaging hours, challenged my preconceived notions and broadened my understanding of leadership. Through Sadatullah sir's insightful sessions, I began to grasp the true essence of leadership beyond mere titles or positions of power.

I learned that a leader is defined not by their authority but by their qualities and actions. A leader possesses a clear vision, unwavering willpower, and a wealth of tolerance, persistence, and perseverance. They prioritize the needs of others above their own and are dedicated to serving and ensuring the well-being of those under their care.

Sadatullah sir helped me realize that anyone entrusted with the responsibility of another person, no matter how small, should exhibit these leadership qualities. Whether it's a husband caring for his wife, a father nurturing his family, or a mother tending to her children, everyone has the potential to be a leader in their own right.

I came to understand that leadership is not about wielding authority for personal gain but about selflessly serving others. A true leader is the last to sleep and the first to rise, ensuring that everyone under their watch is fed, safe, and supported.

The journey of comprehending leadership was akin to assembling a jigsaw puzzle. With each revelation and insight gained during the workshop, I pieced together a clearer understanding of what it means to be a leader.

It took time and patience to fully grasp the concept, but through reflection and exploration, I now see that leadership is not confined to certain individuals or roles. Instead, it is a quality inherent in everyone, waiting to be cultivated and expressed in various aspects of life.

It is crucial to recognize the significance of the family unit within the broader community. Each family serves as a spoke in the wheel of society, and for the wheel to run smoothly, every family must be healthy and strong, grounded in values and mutual respect. Just imagine a community composed of happy and high-value members—it would undoubtedly be a beacon of progress and prosperity. Unfortunately, this ideal often remains elusive in today's society.

Instead, what we often witness are unhappy families and individuals prone to rebellion. The question arises: why does this happen, and what impact does it have on the overall functioning of a community? An unhappy member within a family can sow seeds of discord and contribute to a chaotic and non-progressive community.

In my experience, I've observed that the male head of the household, traditionally known as the patriarch, holds significant influence over family dynamics. However, it's important to note that being a leader in the family goes beyond simply wielding authority. A true leader, particularly in the form of the patriarch, is characterized by qualities such as empathy, effective communication, and emotional intelligence.

Rather than relying solely on his authority, a genuine leader actively engages with each family member, seeking to understand their perspectives and needs. He approaches challenges with resilience, refusing to give up in the face of adversity. Instead, he strives to foster an environment of mutual respect and support within the family unit.

Similarly, mothers too must embody the qualities of effective leadership within the family unit. It's not an easy task, as it requires resisting the temptation to succumb to the practices of a weak or authoritarian leader. Instead, both parents must strive to lead by example, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.

Moreover, a crucial realization dawned upon me—the recognition that I am a leader of my own self. I am responsible for guiding my personality, words, actions, emotions, and decisions. This means adhering to the best practices of leadership even in isolation, ensuring that I prioritize the well-being of others before myself.

If each of us conscientiously adopts these principles and consistently puts others before ourselves, we have the potential to lead happier, more productive lives. By cultivating strong family units and nurturing leadership qualities within ourselves, we can contribute to the creation of harmonious and flourishing communities.

In conclusion, my journey to understanding leadership has been enlightening and transformative. I've come to realize that true leadership is not about authority but about service, compassion, and selflessness for which I thank Sadatullah sir. 

And now, armed with this newfound understanding, I am working on embracing my role as a leader in my own sphere of influence.