What I have learned through ELA:
Self Image and Self Worth
In order for others to believe in your ability to lead, you need to be able to believe in your own ability. For me personally, I feel I know my worth. I strive to focus on ways I can continuously improve myself, both mentally and physically, which helps me form a positive self image. Through endless acceptance from my ELA classmates, it helped solidify my self image even more.
Taking the Initiative to Lead
Before ELA, I had a few different leadership opportunities that I've pursued. I was captain of my high school soccer team as well as indoor, however leadership is not always being in charge. Through ELA, I've learned that taking the initiative to lead can even just be putting in the hands on work. As well as that, leadership is knowing when to step in, and when to step back and encourage your classmates.
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Team Building Skills
The building of a team is not a quick process. An essential part of a team is trust within your team mates. Over the first month of ELA, our class just worked on getting to know each other. After that, it was so much easier to collaborate on projects together. We all knew each other's strengths and weaknesses, and were not afraid to ask for help from our classmates.
Connecting with Others
Being a people person, this was my favorite lesson of the year. I thoroughly enjoy bonding with people, and just overall creating relationships. During class, I learned how much listening can build a relationship. Showing someone you are interested in what they are saying and feel as if it's important, can help build trust. I truly enjoyed creating friendships with my classmates.
Personal Reflection
Although I am a people person, I love my time alone; I am truly an extroverted introvert. Personal time alone can help clarify thoughts and ideas. Being alone with our thoughts can be uncomfortable at times, but it is important to do so in order to grow. Through ELA, I learned how essential it is to step back from life's distractions and just be with yourself.