3Leadership is a skill that plays a critical role in the learning environment, work center, and in all aspects of life. Effective leaders have the ability to influence others to accomplish a desired outcome. Motivating others to follow you is not always an easy task to accomplish, but effective leadership abilities make this task achievable. Becoming an influential leader requires an understanding and demonstration in the areas of critical thinking, forecasting and leading change, interpersonal relationships, ethics, communication, negotiation, and leadership principles. My studies have given me a better understanding in each of these areas and taught me that there is not one right answer when it comes to developing leadership skills.