I don’t think anyone would disagree that our leaders have been tested in 2020 and no amount of education or experience could have helped equip them for the challenges this year has brought. With that being said, I do believe our leaders have done a great job under pressure by utilizing the qualities that put them in leadership positions to begin with.
What are the qualities that you think all leaders should have? Is it empathy, charisma, intelligence, grit, or integrity? The list could be endless. Before you cast your vote on election day, spend some time reflecting on the qualities you believe our leaders must have in order to navigate unforeseen challenges. Do some research and learn about the people running and why they chose to run. What experiences do they bring to the position they are running for? Reach out to the candidates via phone or email, or maybe you’ve had the opportunity to meet them via door knocking. Who stands out to you and why? Is it their flashy signs and media campaigns or is it their ability to look you in the eye, return an email, call you by name, or offer outside the box solutions? Need help finding out more details about the candidates? Start doing your research by visiting both Maury Alliance (www.mauryalliance.com) and Williamson Inc. (www.williamsonchamber.com) websites to “meet” your candidates through online interviews posted on their sites. You can also find sample ballots by going to your county election site: www.maurycounty-tn.gov or www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov.
On a similar note, maybe this past year has inspired you to lead. What qualities do you possess that could help our city, county, schools or nonprofit organizations thrive during an uncertain time? Running for public office is only one avenue out of many that you can allow an individual to make an impact in the community. This year has shown that it takes multiple perspectives, backgrounds, and skillsets around the table to create policies and solutions with our diverse populations in mind. Our community needs qualified individuals to step up and outside their comfort zone for the benefit of the greater good. The next generation is watching, let’s show them how to react when the ‘going gets tough’. Do we sit back and do nothing or do we stand up and take action?
Our city elections are just around the corner in April 2021. Let’s start engaging in the process now so that our city can have the representation needed to guide us through opportunities that will last generation after generation. Please reach out to our office for more information on how you can get involved, learn more about our community and/or sign up for our emails to be notified about public forums with the candidates. We appreciate all of the candidates willing to serve their communities because together we create a better Spring Hill!
- Rebecca Melton, Executive Director, Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce
