3 Essential Qualities for Successful Leadership

Andrew Sowerby of Pryor and Rickett Silviculture addressed the environmental enthusiasts of Bangor University, informing us of a project he is leading that aims to strengthen international bridges in a greener world – Mbael Coed.

The project was proposed following the 2015 Welsh Government Well-Being Act, with aims to plant 10 million trees in Uganda, a less economically developed nation, struggling with:

  • Growing population
  • Decreasing forest cover
  • The majority of its population living in the countryside therefore putting more pressure on natural habitats
Photo source: https://studyabroad.sit.edu/programs/semester/fall-2019/ugd/

Regrettably stating the obvious, this country is rather different to the UK, a far more urbanised nation.

By fundraising and sending a team of volunteers over from the UK in an attempt to plant the ambitious 10 million seed total, the hope is that both parties can learn the benefits of one another’s cultural differences.

Sowerby continued his talk by offering his 3 requirements for being a chartered aboriculturist, based on his experience as Mbale Coed project leader.

1. Always be mindful of the long-term

He stressed the importance of dealing with current issues in a business/charity while never losing sight of the ‘bigger picture’. This is vital when maintaining a focus and progressing towards your goals.

Tomorrow will thank you if you keep it in sight.
Photo source:
https://www.healthista.com/whats-really-behind-emotional-eating-stop/

If you lose sight of your ambitions, how are you going to achieve them?

2. Work from a plan

While this may seem obvious to many, the basics remain the key reasons to many success stories. Having a plan to work from will provide you with structure, keeping you organised while plan-less competitors lose their way.

The relatively short time taken to devise a plan will save you weeks of disorganised improvisation and is key to success.
Photo source:
http://www.bplanexperts.com/4-indicators-look-scaling-venture/

3. Maintain professional relations based on mutual respect

This one stood out as an absolute necessity – how will a team of workers succeed without mutual respect for one another? The importance of a positive atmosphere must not be underestimated.

A smile can work wonders for productivity.
Photo source:
https://digest.bps.org.uk/2017/01/06/done-tastefully-joke-telling-at-work-could-make-you-appear-more-confident-and-competent/

With so many students having delved deep into the depths of dissertation-writing in recent weeks, this talk served as a timely reminder of the importance of the basics in order for the complicated efforts to pay off.

It was interesting to hear first-hand the success criteria from someone enjoying success in the hot seat.

Sowerby concluded this informative talk by providing students with a general reminder that their generation’s actions will greatly dictate the future of the planet.

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