Leaders are not created overnight

 Many parents want their children to become leaders or heads of corporations when they grow up. They believe that leaders wield a lot of power and authority and they want their children to attain this exalted position. But leaders are not created overnight. Leadership qualities are developed over time and parents can help their children from a young age to inculcate habits and behavior that will help them become leaders in future.

Contrary to popular thought, leaders are not necessarily born with leadership qualities. They can be trained and taught the skills necessary to develop into leaders. Parents need to explain this to their children so that they can try to learn these skills if they wish to lead.

Benefits of being a leader

Parents normally emphasise the benefits of being a leader. They do not tell their children about the responsibilities and sacrifices that go with being in this position. Children need to be taught that leaders have to be committed to those they lead, they have to be hardworking and dedicated and willing to stand by their followers in times of trouble.

Children have to learn to distinguish between managers and leaders. Managers instruct, delegate tasks, exercise control and even if they hold senior positions, they are not leaders. In contrast leaders influence, not control, they innovate and treat all as valued members of their community.

How to deal with problems

Parents have to teach children how to deal with problems. Bringing up children in a sanitized, safe, sheltered atmosphere does not prepare them for the problems they will face in the real world. They need exposure to difficulties at a young age so that they develop the talent to handle such situations.

Finally, appreciate your children’s achievements but do not over-praise them. It sets a bad precedent and they expect to be raised for every small things. They become swollen-headed and arrogant which will lead to their downfall ultimately.