"The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader" has turned out to be one of the most insightful reads I've had in quite a while and I've no doubt that these insights will indeed aid me in becoming the person others will want to follow. Just the first 3 chapters of this book have already proven to be a handful to digest, but also implies that much learning will take place in the weeks to come! I chose to read 1 chapter each morning the past 3 days, reflecting on and internalising the content as the day progressed.

Chapter 1 - Character

Character has always been a priority to me. I've always thought of myself as someone with integrity and values. Not perfect, but holding good character nonetheless. My takeaway from this chapter is about the importance of unwavering character and sticking to one's word. Nobody would want to follow someone with flawed character. As a captain or as a mentor to the juniors, I guess that the best way to impart values and good character is by exemplifying it myself.

Chapter 2 - Charisma

Charisma definitely seems a tough quality to master, though I guess the toughness is proportional to the usefulness. My aims on improving in this area for now would firstly include consciously being optimistic in any situation as well as cutting out any moodiness that may arise, especially when I get frustrated. From a coaching point of view, this chapter serves as a reminder to always see the good in every player, not just their flaws and mistakes."Putting a '10' on Every Person's Head".

Chapter 3 - Commitment

I like the heading for this chapter that summarizes the whole chapter: "Commitment: It separates Doers from Dreamers". "Nothing is easier than saying words. Nothing is harder than living them day after day". This chapter was rather thought provoking, and I still cannot think of how to instil commitment even in myself. I realised that pure effort is still far away from true commitment. I made it a goal 3 weeks back to hit 60 three-pointers everyday on non-training days, but realised that even though I followed through on many days, somehow I would always fall short of the "everyday" mark, whether it is because of adjustments in my schedule or oversleeping in the morning. I guess I would need to be able to fulfill a small commitment like this one if I want to truly commit myself to larger things in life.