Leadership Begins with Discipline by Hannah

Leadership Begins with Discipline by Hannah - March 2015 Scholarship Essay

Some people are born to lead, others are more inclined to follow. A balance of both traits is necessary in any society. Therefore if the goal of higher education is to prepare young people to function efficiently in their chosen vocation, there must be a balance of leaders and followers in this area as well. The correct answer is no; leadership skills are not necessary for college success. What is necessary is a set of traits found in both leaders and followers: patience, intelligence, proper time-management, and, most importantly, discipline.

Whether an individual functions better under the authority of others or with others under his authority, his or her success requires the willingness to learn and the discipline to get things done. There is of course a distinction between leaders and followers in a college environment, but that is not the mark of their achievement. Success blesses both parties equally, but the defining factor comes in their self-discipline. Leaders are more inclined towards taking charge of their futures; followers are more apt to receive instruction effectively. Both can have success, but it requires maturity to take the steps necessary to achieve your goals without immediate gratification. Therefore, and college student will not meet his potential without proper discipline.