What defines being a great leader?

It can be assumed that the qualities of a great leader entail having an outgoing personality or the ability to speak up. This shows that someone has strength and confidence, so it is not wrong to assume that these qualities are great leadership.

Furthermore, it is common to believe that a leader is presumed to be a celebrity, multimillionaire, or government official powerhead, like the President or a State Senator.

This commonality is wrong to assume.

There have been many important figures in history that have proven the theory that actions can speak louder than words. The introverts of our society can be just as powerful in leadership as those who are extroverts or power figures.

For instance, Albert Einstein, Rosa Parks, and Dr. Seuss are among some of the most powerful introverted leaders within history. They sparked curiosity and education to minds of all ages.

Einstein’s brilliant mindset allowed us to have a further understanding in the world of physics, for he developed the theories of relativity and an explanation for the photoelectric effect. His theory of relativity is more commonly known, for it allowed for the development of atomic power.

Later, the creation of the atomic bomb. Without his endless hours of dedication being poured into his  research and shutting himself from the world, we may not have been as innovative as we are today in the world of physics.

Rosa Parks actions paved the way for the efforts to end segregation within the use of public facilities and transportation. Her bold action of refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger sparked an uproar in our society.

This lead to a 381-day bus boycott (Montgomery Bus Boycott), for the rights to obtaining equality. Rosa Parks didn’t need to use words to spark this change for the better. All she needed was her strength to carry out her bold decision. Without her, the movement for no segregation would not have been sparked with such peace.

Dr. Seuss spoke through the world of children’s books and storytelling. His books allowed creativity, joy and curiousity to be spread into the minds of all ages. His gift of writing brought some excitement into reading books to those whom may not enjoy reading.

His leadership is not shown through the use of his mouth, but the use of his textual language which sparked interest in so many. 

These individuals are powerful examples of ordinary humans who made a difference in the world whether it be from one decision, the creation of an equation, or telling a story. It proves that to be a leader is not just being an extrovert or a well known. 

A leader comes in all shapes and sizes. 

Quiet or loud.

Big or small.

It’s all about how one chooses to contribute to society and make their mark on the world.

How have you made your mark on the world?