Developing Leadership, Warrior Mindset, and Structured Thought Process in Team

In our research group, I firmly believe that real leadership cannot be taught within the four walls of a classroom, it can only be learned through experience. Leadership is not just about giving instructions or managing people; it’s about developing a warrior-like mindset, the courage to face challenges head-on, and the ability to think clearly and strategically even in difficult situations. To nurture this, I actively create opportunities where my team members can step away from their regular routines of experiments, characterizations, lectures, and paper writing and engage in experiences that build character, resilience, and leadership skills, qualities crucial for their future as independent researchers and professionals.

Over the last three years, I have designed situations and entrusted responsibilities that allow my students to organize events, conferences, symposiums, and workshops. These experiences are intentionally designed to place them slightly outside their comfort zones. Through this, they learn how to manage teams, deal with uncertainties, coordinate with different stakeholders, handle pressure, and find solutions, all while maintaining their academic responsibilities. This hands-on involvement has instilled a structured thought process and warrior mindset in my team members. They’ve begun to realize that challenges, no matter how big, can be overcome with the right attitude, teamwork, and clear planning. I often notice a shift in their thinking as they start to say, “YES, ITS’S POSSIBLE FOR ME!” — a powerful affirmation that builds self-belief and leadership confidence. Beyond academic and professional development, these initiatives also encourage my students to understand the importance of team efforts, collective happiness in completing tasks together, and contributing to society. It builds a sense of responsibility, empathy, and pride in making meaningful contributions beyond one’s personal research. In essence, my goal is to train not just researchers, but future leaders and change-makers, individuals who will carry forward this fearless, structured, and collaborative spirit in whatever career path they choose.