Group XIII – Leadership Seminar

September 16-19, 2008, Trego

THANKS to Seminar Chairs:
Dan Hill, Local Government Specialist with the Local Government Center, UW Extension
Bill Rizzo, Community Resource development Educator, UW-Extension Dane County

Article written by Christine Berry, Group XIII Fellow, Assistant Director, Community Development Corporation, Langlade County

This seminar really has been a huge help to me in so many ways. First, taking time out to sit back, reflect, and really listen to what others are saying, is something I do not practice very often. When we (Oranges) were asked: “Do you leave chaos in your wake?” That question was quite pivotal for me.

Other aspects of this seminar that I found so enlightening was learning and respecting other personality types and my affect on others along with their affect on me. I really learned so much of how others perceive me and my perceptions, as well.

This seminar really established a first step in becoming great leaders. In part because positive interpersonal communication is so crucial in all great leaders, and I saw that coming out in our small group discussions when we were reaching conclusions.

Other things that really were breakthroughs are the confidence this seminar has brought to the surface. It is okay to have your opinion, because that is what it is, an opinion. In addition, I think us as a group, learned a little about respect communication when you may not totally agree with someone else’s view.

In conclusion, as I read what I have written, I realize that my “orange” side is showing, but because of the nature of this seminar, I do not think I could have written it any differently. This seminar really benefitted me in so many ways.