Recently the PIBG was looking at implementing a leadership programme at MCKK. In doing so, we addressed some points which should accompany the definition of leadership, or more aptly, teen leadership.

In doing so, we attribute some of the points to How To Adult.

In a nutshell these points include:

(1) Al-Quwwah wal-amaanah (Al-Qashash : 27)

“O my father, hire him. Indeed, the best one you can hire is the strong and the trustworthy.”

In selection of leaders, a leader must be strong and leadership must not be left with one who is weak. That leader must also be able to fulfill the implementation of agreed rules, and promises made by him or by nature of his position.

(2) Conflict Resolution

A teen leader should understand conflict resolution. There will definitely be times when he’s dealing with friends, groups and even teachers when he’ll need to consider the conflict objectively and identify the solution that benefits the most people and the circumstances. Whether it’s deciding how to divvy up homework or arguing over computer time with a co-user, a teen leader knows how to diffuse the situation and work out a solution. Leadership Now points out that your teen may still need your assistance – offer several solutions, but leave the final call up to your budding leader.

Contra: One who is prone to start a conflict is the antithesis of a leader.

(3) Responsibility and Independence
A teen leader has to learn how to take responsibility for his actions. While it can seem like a drag at first — hey, no kid wants to cop to breaking the rules or missing a homework deadline — it’s ultimately what leads to more independence in the future. When a teen takes responsibility for himself, he doesn’t need to use parents, teachers or other adults as a crutch. In the end, that willingness to take responsibility results in a deep sense of self-trust that can benefit your teen in making decisions in the future.

(4) Confidence and Achievement
It’s pretty hard for a teen to achieve greatness when he’s always looking to others for direction. By fostering teen leadership, you teach your teen that he’s capable of influencing not only his own destiny but influencing the thoughts and actions of others for the better. Of course, he’ll need confidence to assert his opinions and ideas, but that can simply lead to a greater sense of achievement. The idea that he can lead a group project, make plans for a group or even influence younger members can add to a great sense of confidence for a teenager.

(5) Community Involvement
Finally, a young teen leader should have a deep sense of community. He would want to make changes for the better and is therefore willing to put forth the effort to inspire others to do so too. That also means finding opportunities to be active in the community through volunteerism. Even young teens can work in volunteer projects, help out with children’s programmes and find other ways to benefit the community while working with other teens to do the same.

Do you agree with these points? Or do you have additional points to add?

Feel free to share with us.