Every time I have gone through rough, challenging times, what has empowered me to stay strong and move forward is to focus on those things that ignite my inner passion and desires. Throughout the course of my life, I have encountered numerous personal challenges or difficulties, but I found the way to thrive and excel through the most difficult situations by finding solutions and the strength to move forward in things I am passionate about. I find fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment when turning negative situations into positive outcomes.

Leading by example is the most powerful form of leadership. My wise mother once told me, if you can’t be a good example, may your actions at least serve as a terrible warning to others. My mom can be very bold at times, but these words hold great meaning to me. Her words made me realize that leadership is a choice and does not require a position of authority or other forms of control over others. We all have a choice in life, no matter what the situation calls for. I learned early in life that the best leaders lead because they care about people, they teach through their actions, not by words alone. Therefore, leadership is an action, not a position or hierarchy.

Some of the greatest leaders that resonate with my trend of thoughts are Mother Theresa, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. True leaders like them have the ability to see things through the eyes of their followers. True leaders live with the purpose to serve others, not to command and are not afraid to challenge the social status quo. After all, opportunities are always there to help and influence others, to show the way, to serve others and to set the example. It is ultimately our choice of how we want to lead, influence the world and voice our views.