The Uncertain Senior Patrol Leader

Scouter 573 asks: What can I do to help an uncertain senior patrol leader who thinks he got chosen for something other than his leadership abilities? Most of my senior patrol leader’s (twenty five or so and counting) have had at least a minor crisis of self confidence. A few have had some major misgivings.

I try to help them recall that they were elected by their fellow Scouts, and that in itself witnesses that they have confidence in him.

Imbue them with confidence and support, make their disappointments small. If they are beaten down by many failures find some element of success to build upon.

Think of yourself as a drill sergeant who, instead of finding every opportunity to tear down, finds every opportunity to build up. Don’t floridly overreact in the manner of a doting parent but find your opportunities for praise. The confidence you exhibit in any youth leader is proportional to the confidence they will develop.