Qualities found in a leader

Everyone who comes across our path is an individual.

They have thoughts, ideas, feelings and opinions. Some of these individuals go down the path of life minding their own business and not really saying much. You might get a hint of their thoughts through their body language, but not much is really said. Why would an individual be so quiet? What was done to them? What was said to them? There are many individual stories out there and, at some point, these will come out.

Every so often a choice is given to all in the selection of who is thought to be a leader in the community. It seems to follow suit that whoever became mayor would then move on to territorial politics. This may sit well with some, but I like to think that a good leader is one who takes up arms within the community and advocate for the voiceless. This is not done on an individual basis but in partnership with those who seem to feel and think the same way.

I think we’ve touched on this matter in the past, but I would like to remind us of some qualities that a person has in the making of a good leader. They create a better environment; they don’t assume the position to order their workers around; they know their team and themselves well and are not easily persuaded or influenced; they maintain a positive attitude amid the challenges they’re engaged in; they build the next generation of leaders; a leader can’t and shouldn’t stand or work alone.

An individual who commits to diligently make a difference must be a good listener and willing to take constructive criticism along with sound directions. I watched my late father go through many sacrifices as he worked towards the creation of what we now know as Nunavut. He may have had some personal thoughts and ideas and maybe he expressed them, but he was willing to forego his personal agenda and work with the team of the day. This kind of quality is plainly outlined in the IQ principles that must be incorporated in dealing with our aspirations and desire for a better quality of life for all Nunavummiut.

Our elders are aging quickly and we must engage them in positive strong advice while they are able to speak. This may spark that leadership quality that is in all of us.