From my perspective, there are all kinds of things I can do to grow as a leader.
First and foremost, I believe it is important that I do things that I am interested in. Learning how to lead is best accomplished when it is connected to something I am passionate about and willing to invest my time and energy in.
My interests in leveraging technology, the use of social media, and diversity, equity, and inclusion have provided me with ample opportunities to learn and lead. Using my interests as a foundation, I have been developing my leadership skills by practicing discipline, taking on more at advanced levels, inspiring others, being open to learning and unlearning, and networking to build a variety of relationships and connections.
The leadership work directly connected with my interests have allowed me to apply what I am learning to areas that I don't necessarily have interests in but are necessary in my line of work. As a formal leader, there are lots of areas that require leadership so picking and choosing where and when to lead isn't an option. When decisions need to be made, and action needs to be taken, there is no room to waiver.
The more familiar I can be with the basics, the more automatic it will be for me to apply my knowledge and skills when I am faced with any opportunity to make decisions and take the lead in situations/activities.
What matters most is that I am engaging in constant learning and reflection on the skills and practices that are needed to lead. There will always be time to talk about what it means to be a leader and what might need to be done to lead BUT without action, none of that stuff will matter.
Interests --> learn ---> lead by talk and action ---> assess ---> shift, if needed ---> repeat!
