A look back at what I learned from a year of leading a team of 30 fiercely individual people to recruit and motivate 1,500 other individuals to help a great cause.
At my desk I keep two photos of the 2018 Morale & Recruitment committee. I keep them to remind me of my time with this phenomenal group of 30 undergrads. It reminds me why I stood for the cause. It reminds me of some of my successes as a leader, but more often, and more importantly, it reminds me of some of my mistakes. If I could go back, I would change many of the decisions I made. I would lean more on my committee members and subchairs. I would recognize that delegation isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and trust that you’ve built a good team.
More than all that, the photo on my desk reminds me to remember the beauty of togetherness and individuality. While we all made up one team, each person reminds me of something important:
Annabelle reminds me of what it means to be a loyal, kind and supportive friend.
Anna reminds me to see the beauty, and humor, of the world the way it is. She helps remind me to persevere, be patient and to stand up for others.
Anne reminds me that it’s important to lead with kindness, empathy and little bit of humor.
Caroline, Grayson and Emma remind me of the beauty of laughter in friendship. They also remind me that no matter how close you are in a group, there’s always room for more voices and more friends at the table.
Caroline reminds me that a little well-placed goofiness can brighten even the darkest of days.
Catie and Kailey remind me to be a loyal and caring friend.
Chandler reminds me to bring energy and passion to everything I do.
Elena reminds me that motivation isn’t always loud and boisterous. It’s also found in quiet moments of sympathetic eye contact across a room of loud morale members.
Elizabeth reminds me to lead with empathy and follow with a hug and a little humor.
Haley reminds me to put people first and to remember the deeper purpose of CFTK or whatever I’m working on.
Hannah reminds me to check my privilege and to speak up against injustice.
Jessica reminds me to embrace who I am and those around me for who they truly are.
Jordan reminds me that a friendly smile, a little laughter and the occasional corgi appearance goes a long way.
Laura reminds me to lead with compassion. She inspires me to give freely and wholeheartedly.
Lexi reminds me to keep an open mind and a strong heart.
Lindsay reminds me to lift up the women around me. She also reminds me that women are strong, capable and incredible beings.
Luci reminds me to persevere when times get tough and to be forgiving of myself when I need a break.
Miranda reminds me to be fiercely and unapologetically true to myself.
Olivia reminds me to make others feel valued and important whether I’ve known them for two seconds or two years.
Rachel Allore reminds me laugh and give to others freely and happily.
Rachel Woodul reminds me to be kind, patient and honest.
Ryder reminds me to speak truth and to make ideas and organizations stronger by acknowledging their faults.
Sydney reminds me that dedication to a good cause is always worth it.
Sara reminds me to listen first and follow with love and patience.
One year after this journey of leadership, motivation, and cause-driven dedication, I continue to learn more from it each day. Thank you to every person who has shown me that leadership isn’t about what I can do, but what we can all do together.
Annie Proctor 