Mind over matter: LEAD session explores how great leaders think
Students and college personnel at Meridian Community College took a closer look at how strong leaders approach decision-making during the latest Leadership Effectiveness and Development (LEAD) session.
Erin Richardson, MCC’s Director of Digital Teaching and Learning, led the session with the presentation, “Mind Over Matter: How Great Leaders Think about Thinking.” Her focus was on metacognition which is the practice of understanding one’s own thought process.
Richardson explained that metacognition is “thinking about thinking,” a skill that helps people learn smarter. She noted that it’s something students should begin building in high school and continue strengthening during their early college years. Even though the theory has been around for decades, she said the research behind it remains strong.
“All great leaders have a thinking process,” Richardson said. She noted that Steve Jobs often paused before responding to others, and Nelson Mandela used reflection as part of his leadership approach. “Great leaders don’t just act. They reflect, adapt, and grow through awareness of their thinking,” she added.
Richardson said she first discovered metacognition while in graduate school. Learning how her own mind worked helped her understand her academic needs and ultimately improve her performance.
During the session, students used their cellphones to answer a short assessment to better understand their personal thinking and learning habits.
MCC hosts LEAD sessions each month as part of its commitment to helping students develop leadership skills. Sessions are open to all students and feature professionals from across campus and the community. The next LEAD event is set for Jan. 28 in the Quave Student Life Center.
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/calendar.