I recently started nursing school, and everything (for the most part) is going great, so far. But, there is an issue that has come up for me, and I think everyone here might want to read about. It has to do with leadership and group dynamics. My question is this: how do I be a leader in group discussions, using assertiveness and collaboration, without getting critisized, stonewalled, or getting an otherwise negative reaction? It seems that when I'm in certain groups (not every group, by the way), there is a competition for the leadership role. When this happens, I've seen the group morale detiorate, and I've also seen people become hostile and insulting. It seems like there is a way to finesse the group a little bit, or a way to be recognized and appreciated for my contributions without getting the stink eye. I've specifically seen people have marked negative reactions to my analytical, problem-solving approach to getting things done. I've heard others say that it's just not right to "barge in and tell everybody," but I'm not just going to sit there while people waste time and chat. It seems like people are letting their personal lives into classwork, and not focusing on the big picture -- which is that we're there to accomplish a common goal, through the most effective means possible. Is it unfair to presume that people's reactions to my personality are biased, because of their personal interest in achieving leadership at all costs? It's a hard way to look at it, but it's the only conclusion I've come to. When I look at my behavior, I recall being as nice as I possibly could be, making sure to initiate conversations and engage every group member, and bring a positive, supportive -- yet leading -- attitude to the group. Part of self reflection is just that... but I get the feeling that I'm going to have to put on some armor before working with these people again, because I've seen them become insulting, demeaning, and negative in situations like I'm talking about. This, in my opinion, is entirely unprofessional... and it puts me in a bad spot, because I look like the bad guy, even though I've maintained a professional level of communication the entire time. What to do, what to do. Advice?
