[JaneYoung]

It may be time to do some self assessment.

Not in the manner of - I do this for the team - but in the manner of - how do I conduct myself? How do I present my ideas? How do I enter a meeting that is already in process? How do I conduct myself in other aspects of my life - school, student groups, with friends and family, in my job?

Leadership isn't something that is picked up and put down as a tool. To me, leadership is the engine. Tools such as wisdom, encouragement, knowledge and how they are used - are what keeps the engine humming, running smoothly. The lubricants are humility, respect, friendliness, support.

In leadership, you aren't necessarily just leading others, you are leading yourself as well.

The immediate thought is what FIRST asks of mentors and of students. To work together. To find ways to work together. A good mentor always wants to train, to share knowledge, to help the student develop and grow. To inspire. For this to happen, the student has to be receptive, open to learning what the mentor is trying to teach/role model. Often, students and mentors are bridging the gaps of generations, eras of development, cultures, educational backgrounds, personality differences, and tiredness.

Assess your self and what you have contributed to the situation that has brought you to this point. Think about it. Ask your mentor for an opportunity to discuss where you have come to a cross in the road and see how best to get back on track and centered.