Kamala Harris has become an icon of perseverance and leadership skills, breaking barriers in both her personal and professional life. Recently, she earned a high-profile presidential endorsement from pop superstar Taylor Swift, further amplifying her influence as a leader for future generations. As we dive into her inspiring story, let’s explore her leadership journey and how you can follow in her footsteps to become a leader in your own life.
Quick Background on Kamala Harris
Born to immigrant parents in Oakland, California, Kamala Harris grew up in a diverse and vibrant community. Her mother, a biomedical scientist from India, and her father, an economist from Jamaica, instilled in her a strong sense of appreciation for different voices and different people. Justice and public service became a natural progression from that upbringing. Harris pursued a degree in political science and economics at Howard University, followed by a law degree from the University of California. From there, her career took off!
2 Major Accomplishments as Vice President
As Vice President, Kamala Harris has already left her mark with leadership skills.
- Tie-Breaking Senate Record: Harris has served as Vice President of The United States of America for almost one full term, and in that time, she has broken the record with casting deciding votes in the Senate. This record had not been broken in almost 200 years! Her predecessor was the 7th Vice President, John C. Calhoun.
- Leading COVID-19 Vaccination Efforts: Harris played a crucial role in promoting vaccine equity. This ensured that underserved communities had access to life-saving COVID-19 vaccines. Her leadership helped increase vaccination rates.
4 Career Highlights from Prosecutor to Vice President
Kamala Harris’ rise to the second-highest office in the United States is built on a strong legacy of hard work on her part:
- District Attorney of San Francisco: Harris was the first woman of color to serve as San Francisco’s DA. As District Attorney, she pioneered programs focused on rehabilitation rather than incarceration.
- California Attorney General: Harris tackled cases involving environmental protection, corporate fraud, and civil rights violations.
- U.S. Senator for California: As a U.S. senator, she fought for healthcare reform, criminal justice reform, and civil rights protections.
- Vice President of the United States: Kamala Harris made history as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian vice president, marking a pivotal moment for women and people of color in leadership.
5 Unique Traits or Fun Facts About Kamala Harris as a Leader
Kamala Harris’ leadership skills are rooted in both her personal experiences and her professional skills. What leadership skills can we learn to grow from Harris?
- Resilience: Harris has faced criticism throughout her career but remains unshaken and quite lively in discourse. This resilience allows her to stay focused on her goals and push forward even in challenging times.
- Empathy: Known for her deep compassion, Harris listens to people’s struggles and works to find solutions that address their needs at every level, including mental health. Her ability to connect with individuals on a human level strengthens her leadership and makes people like her overall approach to communication.
- Multicultural Background: As the daughter of immigrants, Harris embodies the diversity of America. This multicultural perspective gives her a broader understanding of the issues facing various communities.
- Sharp Legal Mind: Her background as a prosecutor has sharpened her analytical and decision-making skills. Harris excels at thinking critically and crafting solutions in high-pressure situations.
- Sense of Humor: Known for her infectious laugh and lighthearted banter, Harris uses humor as a tool to diffuse tension and build rapport with others. Her playful nature makes her approachable, even when tackling serious issues.
5 Steps to Becoming a Leader Like Kamala Harris
You don’t need to be running for office to adopt some of the leadership traits that make Kamala Harris successful. You can take the lead to be like Kamala Harris, too!
- Stay Resilient: Life will always throw challenges your way, but how you handle them makes the difference. Learn to bounce back from setbacks with strength and grace.
- Lead with Compassion: Always remember that leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about understanding the needs of those you’re leading. Practice empathy in your daily interactions.
- Embrace Diversity: Open yourself up to new perspectives. Seek out diverse experiences and learn from people of different backgrounds, just as Harris has done throughout her life.
- Sharpen Your Skills: Whether it’s through education or practice, continue to hone your strengths. A sharp mind like Harris’ is built on a foundation of continual learning.
- Have Fun Along the Way: Don’t forget to enjoy the journey. Find ways to incorporate humor and positivity into your leadership style—it makes the tough moments more manageable.
Kamala’s Leadership Skills and Signature Style: Memorable Sayings
Kamala Harris is known for several expressions that make her stand out from the crowd of career politicians in this country. She frequently uses phrases like, “I’m speaking,” which she famously stated during the vice-presidential debate. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of being heard, especially for women in leadership. Another favorite is, “You may be the first, but make sure you’re not the last,” which encapsulates her belief in paving the way for future generations. This is a significant trait for Harris since even her opponents recognize her sayings and mannerisms almost immediately – being iconic is a great sign of leadership indeed.
Aspire to Be the Next Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris represents a leader who blends toughness with empathy, intelligence with humility, and professionalism with a touch of humor. Maybe you are not running for president this year, but you can still be leader of your own world. Her journey reminds us all that leadership skills do not happen overnight and they are not reserved for the few. Leadership is attainable by anyone willing to work hard and uplift others. You can be like Kamala if you put your mind to it! Start by setting small goals, growing your skills, and leading with a heart that’s focused on making a difference.
By aspiring to the traits Kamala Harris embodies, you can begin your own leadership journey, no matter where you are in life. All it takes is determination, compassion, and a dash of humor to become the leader you’ve always envisioned!
Kimberly Grant – Reimagining Your Power
To find out more about the importance of leadership development, read Kimberly Grant’s latest book – Reimagining Your Power. For leadership and life coaching services in New Jersey, New York, and beyond, contact Kimberly at 201-446-3729 or visit the Reimaging Your Power website today.