Important Question - Leadership

[DonRotolo]

Originally Posted by artdutra04

We are human, and we all have limits to how much each of us can accomplish.

I was going to post a witty comment to the effect of 'speak for yourself', but the more I read it, the more I found myself agreeing that this is the essence of leadership.

As a supervisor, I can certainly do everything any of my team does, and in most cases, better & faster. But, I have them do it, because in this way I can have the effect of ten of me. When they have a problem, I help and teach, but otherwise my daily work is getting them what they need to do THEIR work.

On a FIRST team, it is much the same way. Barker, you are correct in your understanding that being the team captain leaves little or no time for doing the 'fun' work - building robots. But, there needs to be someone who oversees the whole operation, and makes sure that things stay moving. You need to keep wandering around, seeing what everyone is up to, and when there's a probelm, putitng your head in there to get it solved - reallocate resources, broker an agreement, maybe even make a decision (often based on incomplete data).

Just like in business. Or government.

From what you have written so far, you'dd make a good leader. it IS a sacrifice - just ask our two CEOs so far. they didn't get to do what they wanted, but they had to do what was needed. Of course, they were supported by mentors & teachers. But, both finished the year with a new skill - leadership. Unselfish giving for the team.

If you really really want to work on the robot, then you might want to stay away from a leadership position. Or, resign yourself to doing the fun stuff for a set period (like one evening) each week. Or, do it at home, outside FIRST. But, leadership can be immensely rewarding, and a very valuable skill in the future. Remember: Lots of kids learn how to build a robot, but only a lucky few learn Leadership.

Don