Leadership is more about guiding people down the right track rather than ordering people around. However, leadership is nothing if the team cannot work together. Teamwork is the ability to collaborate with other people, and the best leadership establishes teamwork within a group.

ASC Year 9 Camp was integral in teaching me that the best form of leadership also implements teamwork. On the first day, we had to form groups for cooking. Smith, Toby and I decided to go together. As we congregated to cook, it became evident that our cooking skills could use a lesson. When we encountered a problem, we struggled to solve it smoothly.

With our progress stalling and our meal falling apart, we needed someone to lead from the front. So, I stepped up to the task. I gave each of us a role and assigned jobs. Therefore, everyone handled specific jobs they knew how to do, which allowed us to make the meal in time.

By the next day, we had got to know each other even more, and we were more used to cooking. However, we still struggled to work together efficiently because our teamwork was lacking. I soon realised that a different way of leading would suit this situation better. I needed to back away from the front and join the centre of the group. I needed to help build up our teamwork. It was time to lead from the back.

“…leadership is nothing if the team does not use teamwork.”

So, we discussed and made decisions as a group. I made suggestions and stepped in when needed, but I made sure I was only a guide. As a result, we communicated more rationally, used initiative and enhanced our efficiency.

Through cooking with Toby and Smith, I discovered that the best form of leadership includes being part of the team. The best teams have leaders who know that they must combine leadership and teamwork to succeed.