Leadership is no easy task. Many people fail to see how diverse and multilayered it can be. You think, “Oh, it’s just about bossing a bunch of people around, it’s not that hard,” but the true definition is a lot more complex. You have to be a role model, you have to empower others to become their best version, you have to know where your own shortcomings are so you can counteract them, you have to know of different issues around the world so you know what to work on and and and. But there is one value that is quintessential, if you want to become a true leader: you have to enjoy it. It’s as simple as that. If you don’t enjoy doing what you lead, you will never rise to become the kind of tleader that your cause deserves.

There are many different opportunities out there for everybody and one of the most difficult tasks you experience in your life is picking what you want to do with it. Where do you want to work? What do you want to spend your time on? Making the right choice will determine your happiness in the future and not only your own but also of the people around you. See, if you are lucky enough to find something that you are passionate about and if you manage to turn this into your profession, your path is set. That is what distinguishes good leaders from great ones. They truly enjoy what they are doing, and transmit this feeling to those around them.

We all know that happiness is contagious and a positive attitude will spread to everyone in your surrounding. And it’s not only good for others, it’s great for you. You wake up in the morning not dreading the day, you have a smile on your face while working and you manage to face problems head on with solutions that can solve anything. The truth is, if you are currently in a situation where you are unhappy, why continue? Life is too short. Find something that you enjoy, that you are truly passionate about and spend your time on that. A lot of people choose certain careers or life paths because they want money or because of family pressure.

You might go through college kind of enjoying it, you may even start working and not completely hate it. But in the long term, you will never be happy if you don’t follow your heart.

David Frost said: “Don’t aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally.” Success is something personal. It depends on your goal. If yours is to lead a happy life and you end up working somewhere where you have a big salary but you don’t enjoy it, then you are not successful. Sure from an outside perspective one might think so, but you yourself know that it is not the case.

So don’t be afraid, challenge yourself and you will discover what makes you happy. Then – stick to it and you will lead the change you envision.

Do you enjoy what you do? Find what you are passionate about through an AIESEC experience. Find your opportunity now at aiesec.org