Self-Image
Self-image is the way you see, feel, and think about yourself. Overall, I would say that I have a positive self-image, although there are times when the self-doubts become present, I try hard to work past them. When first meeting me, I would say I typically come off as quiet and reserved, but once you get to know me, it is an entirely different story. It does not take me long to become comfortable in my surroundings and show the world my goofy, outgoing personality. This year alone, I have been able to warm up to a situation faster, and even put myself out there even when I do not feel comfortable. Self-image not only reflects who you are as a person, but it is going to translate into whom you become as a professional. As a professional, I would like to be a confident person, who is a positive source of support for others that I am working with. Continuing to grow within my self and develop more of a self-image will help me in my future.
Taking the Initiative to Lead
Choosing to participant in Emerging Leaders Academy, I have developed my leadership skills significantly. Deciding to lead a group, has always been a difficult task for me. Although, I do find it easier for me to lead a group of younger kids or even older adults. I believe that is because I was a camp counselor for five years and now I am an activity assistant at a nursing home here in Bismarck, so I feel more comfortable to lead in a situation of familiarity. I learned throughout the school that it is okay to feel uneasy at times when it comes to leading a group, but if you feel confident and passionate about it, you should not let your uneasiness hold you back. I also learned that great leaders do not always lead sometimes giving others the chance to lead, to encourage them, makes you a leader. Take the initiative to lead does not always make you a leader, but knowing when you are the right person to take the lead, and helping others around you lead, makes you a true leader.
Connecting with Others
Connecting with others, that being your coworkers, your clients, or just people in general, is something that must happen within an environment to build a relationship, where both parties feel respect and value. I believe that the best way to connect with people is personal attentiveness, seeing the best in others, respecting and accepting others, and showing sincerity. As an activity assists, I have practice the skill of connecting with others every time I go to work. I have learned, especially in the nursing home, the residents want someone to listen to them, to hear what they are saying. Also, then just showing that personal attentiveness the next time you meet with the resident, remembering the little things means the world to them. Connecting with others, in my opinion, is super critical to forming the foundation of relationship and is how I am going to be successful in my future job.
Team Building Skills
For a team to be effective, it all starts with a strong leader to guide the team. Some of the qualities that a strong leader must possess are open-minded, respectful and empower those on the team. It does not only take a strong leader to make an effective team, but it is also how the team members work together. Some characteristics of a successful team that works together are excellent communication skills, supportive, and evenly distribute responsibilities. The skills that I possess that would make be both an effective leader as well as a team member are open-mindedness, understanding, trustworthy, and motivated. As activity assist, direct support professional and taking on more roles in ELA, I have had the ability to practice these skills further this year.
Personal Reflection
Looking back at the year, I am so proud of whom I have become both personally and professionally. I have grown so much with both the help of Emerging Leaders Academy and Dr. Jonas and my personal reflections throughout the year. I have learned that it is okay to be with my thoughts; that is the only way I am going to grow as a person. Without the distractions of the world, digging deep into what you are feeling and what is happening in your life, you can work through so many problems and questions. The major obstacle for me not taking more time for personal reflection would be time. Going to school as well as working a part-time job my time is minimal. However, over the course, I have learned how essential it is to make time for this, even if it five minutes a day. Being able to grow professionally, first starts with me being able to grow personally through reflections.