Teacher Leadership Begins with Self-Leadership

Abstract

This study examines teacher leadership and how it starts with self-leadership. An effective teacher leader must be able to lead oneself effectively before he or she can lead others within and outside the classroom. Self-leadership is the practice in which one intentionally influences their thinking, feelings, and actions in order to achieve specific objectives. Self-leadership is an aspect of positive self-influence by defining how one excels within the teaching profession and within the classroom. Self-discovery is a vital step to effective self-leadership. Self-discovery is initiated by self-reflection, which comprises examining individual life, experiences, and responses to situations. Self-discovery is a critical process not only for teacher leadership, but also personal development, performance improvements, and ultimate life enrichment. Self-leadership is founded on self-acceptance. Self-leadership is about one choosing to influence their thinking, feelings, and actions intentionally. Teacher leadership often starts with good self-leadership such that a teacher may be able to influence the learners positively.