I’m currently on the train heading into Manchester for the first day of a Level 5 Leadership course, and the beginning of an ILM qualification. It’s the start of something exciting…I’m not sure what yet but if nothing else it’s the next step in my professional life.
As part of our preparation for day one, we had to choose a leadership quote that resonates with us to turn into an inspirational poster to bring to the first training day. I originally chose 2 and then realised they were both quotes from men and, whilst I still loved the quotes, I really wanted to celebrate female leadership. So I dug a little deeper (surprise, surprise, most of the best known and widely circulated quotes are from men!) and I found TONS of amazing quotes from women in leadership; I couldn’t choose so I have 3! 

This is the first: 

  
“True leaders understand that leadership is not about them but about those they serve. It is not about exalting themselves but about lifting others up.” – Sheri L. Dew
…and the second: 

  
“Leadership should be more participative than directive, more enabling than performing.” – Mary D. Poole
…and the final one:

  
 “…true leadership stems from individuality that is honestly and sometimes imperfectly expressed…Leaders should strive for authenticity over perfection.” – Sheryl Sandberg

Excited to see what this course brings and to start exploring my own style of leadership.