Capstone Sa

What?

 

Commitment is what motivates people to serve and to assume leadership positions. Committed individuals have an intrinsic passion, responsibility, and connection with their cause and the work they do. Furthermore, commitment is what drives action; thus, it drives social change. Leaders who know themselves and who are able to act consistently are more easily committed to causes they are passionate about, to necessary changes in the communities they are a part of, as well as they are able to more easily dedicate to the work which needs to be done.

 

I formally learned the meaning of commitment in my LDRS 1015 class; however, the true signification of this social change value took better form to me as I decided to commit to the leadership and social change minor. I have always known I am passionate about a variety of topics and that I enjoy guiding others towards a common goal, but making the decision to focus my undergraduate studies in leadership definitely took commitment. More than learning to commit to the classes and the work required for this minor, this experience has taught me the meaning of commitment as far as a social cause goes, I learned to dedicate myself to my class work and outside experiences such that one day I am able to give back to my community.

 

So What?

 

Commitment is an important social change value because it defines the level of success a leader is able to achieve. Leaders differentiate themselves from dreamers simply based on the fact that the later ones often times lack the commitment necessary to bring about a change. Therefore, commitment is very important for any change to occur in society since change requires arduous work, contribution to a common goal, and continuous dedication.

 

Another important nuance of commitment for leadership is the fact that it promotes the empowering of team members as well as it fosters trust. Leaders who are committed to a cause and know the importance of such cause, how change may be achieved, and the work that needs to be done are better able to motivate followers throughout the entire leadership process, from setting a vision to sharing credit, for example. Furthermore, as a result of the creation of such collaborative atmosphere amongst the group or team, committed leaders are often times better trusted by their followers which leads to more work being accomplished.

 

Now What?

 

Commitment is an essential part of any leadership work which makes it a very important social change value. As I finish my undergraduate studies and complete this minor, I plan on remaining committed to my leadership education and to the social causes which have grown near to my heart throughout this experience. My main goal is to work as an advocate of education such that, one day, I can contribute to my community and give back to those in need.

 

As far as remaining committed my leadership education, I would love to work for a company which promotes leadership education but I am also interested in continuing my leadership studies by reading and continuing to be engaged in social action as I have thus far. Commitment is what moves people and it certainly is what moves leaders towards change, for this reason, I plan to remain committed to myself, to my education, and to the work trusted upon me as a leader.