Quarterly Teen Workshop: Discovering Your Leadership Style

When you hear the word "leader," you might picture the loudest person in the room, the team captain, or the boss. But leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all role. In this 30-minute interactive workshop, we will explore the different ways leadership actually looks and how you can step into your own power—whether you are training, studying, competing, or just hanging out with friends.

Everyone has the capacity to lead. This session will break down four common forms of leadership and how to apply them in your everyday life:

1. Leading by Example (The Quiet Leader) You don’t have to be loud to set the standard.

• On the Mat: Staying focused during drills, demonstrating strong technique, and pushing through a tough burnout without complaining.
• In School: Doing your part in a group project reliably and staying out of unnecessary drama.
• In Team Sports: Showing up to practice early and giving maximum effort during warm-ups.
• At Home: Setting a standard for younger siblings through your daily habits and actions.

2. The Mentor (The Helper / Servant Leader) Leadership is often about lifting others up and making the team stronger as a whole.

• On the Mat: Partnering with a newer student, showing patience, and helping them hold pads correctly.
• In School: Helping a classmate understand a difficult assignment or sharing notes.
• In Team Sports: Helping a struggling teammate master a play or carrying shared equipment without being asked.
• With Friends: Being the reliable listener when someone is having a bad day and offering quiet support.

3. The Motivator (The Vocal Leader) Sometimes the room needs a voice to bring energy, focus, and direction.

• On the Mat: Cheering on your partners when they are tired, calling out the time left on the clock, and bringing the energy up.
• In School: Volunteering to present for your group or asking the questions everyone else is too shy to ask.
• In Team Sports: Firing up the team before a game and communicating loudly so everyone is in the right position.
• In Friend Groups: Organizing plans, checking in on everyone, and speaking up when someone is being left out.

4. The Problem Solver (The Situational Leader) Stepping up to take charge when a situation requires quick thinking or a change of plans.

• On the Mat: Recognizing when a drill is getting too close to another group and suggesting you move to stay safe.
• In School: Diffusing a tense argument or figuring out a workaround when a project plan falls apart.
• Everywhere Else: Taking action during an emergency, or simply stepping up to handle a situation safely and confidently when adults aren't around.

Why It Matters: Taking agency over your own experience starts with understanding how you influence the world around you. By figuring out your natural leadership style, you will be better equipped to set personal boundaries, navigate uncomfortable encounters, and help maintain a safe, empowering environment for yourself and your peers.