Menjadi Pemimpin Hebat Dimulai Dari Diri Sendiri

Abstract

Leadership is an essential skill that should be developed from an early age, particularly among junior high school students who are in a crucial stage of character and personality formation. The community service activity entitled “Becoming a Great Leader Starts with Yourself” was conducted at SMP Negeri 4 Kodi Balaghar with the aim of increasing students’ understanding and awareness of self-leadership as the foundation for developing effective leadership qualities. This article employs a library research method by reviewing and analyzing relevant literature on leadership, character education, and adolescent development. The community service program was implemented through presentations, interactive discussions, case-study activities, and self-reflection sessions designed to encourage students to recognize and develop leadership values in their daily lives. The results indicate that students demonstrated a high level of self-leadership, with an overall mean score of 4.24 and a standard deviation of 0.64. Among the measured indicators, honesty achieved the highest mean score (M = 4.40; SD = 0.55), followed by responsibility (M = 4.35; SD = 0.58). Self-confidence recorded the lowest mean score (M = 4.10; SD = 0.75), although it remained within the high category. The findings also revealed positive changes in students’ attitudes and behaviors, including improved discipline, responsibility, cooperation, empathy, honesty, and confidence in expressing opinions. Students gained a better understanding that leadership is not solely associated with formal positions but begins with the ability to manage oneself and serve as a positive role model. Therefore, support from families and schools plays a vital role in fostering leadership character and preparing students to become responsible and influential members of society.