Leadership

Sample Forum Post (using the three-part Student-Directed Inquiry approach)

“Self-awareness, or learning to identify and understand one’s own worldview, becomes a cornerstone of leadership” (Valk et al., p. 55). Sire (2009) maintains, “that for any of us to be fully conscious intellectually we should not only be able to detect the worldviews of others but beware of our own” (p. 12). Understanding who we are and what shapes our perceptions and ideals lends itself to a deeper level of self-awareness. As an emerging leader I recognize the importance of understanding and being respectful of others views. Every person adheres to some sort of worldview; and how we think and act affects others. In my worldview using Sire's definition, “living” is the personal journey of our lives. How do we choose to live and what shapes and guides our realities, perceptions, and biases. To “move” implies I must continue to grow and evolve alongside our changing world, and be open to new ideas and perspectives in order to guide others with an open mind. In understanding “have our being” (Sire, 2009, p. 20), I feel we must innately understand who we are, what our strengths and weaknesses are, and how do we draw upon them in our desire to teach, influence, and lead others. At the core of our worldviews are our moral values and these values determine how we interpret situations. Our understandings are usually consistent with how we already view the world, which leads to how we act or respond. Valk et al (2011) emphasize that “great leaders must take action in the world from a clear place (p. 61). This is important because “when leaders assist others in making sense of the world through a clearly articulated and coherent worldview, solid action can follow (p. 61). With that in mind, what are some of the specific reflection practices a leader can engage in to really unearth how congruent their behavior is with their worldview? References: Sire, J. W. (2009). The universe next door: A basic worldview catalog. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. Valk, J., Belding, S., Crumpton, A., Harter, H., & Ream, J. (2011). Worldviews and leadership: Thinking and acting the bigger picture. Journal of Leadership Studies, 5(2), 54-62.

Commented [DA1]: The post begins with an opening quote that is directly related to the discussion in the post.

Commented [DA2]: These three paragraphs are a discussion of the questions asked in the instructor’s opening post: What does it mean to “live and move and have your being” as it relates to your worldview? And How will your own worldview inform your leadership approach in a way that enhances your sphere of influence in a diverse world? Note the response cites at least two readings from the course (in APA format, of course )

Commented [DA3]: Lastly, the post concludes with an open-ended question that was raised by this student’s reflection. A good critical thinking question will invite complex responses. This is your opportunity to really interact with those big, hairy, audacious questions you might have. I like to call these “wicked questions”. Your questions should be more related to theory and less personal in terms of direction. For example, “What worldview framework are you working within?” is more personal. Whereas, “How can a leader lead their team effectively when each person has a different, and sometimes conflicting or competing, worldview? Is very much related to theory and invites a complex, critical thinking response.

Commented [DA4]: Your references should be listed at the bottom of your post. Remember to draw on theory and material from throughout the program. You have a wonderful set of leadership resources from your previous courses!