LEADERSHIP! What does it take to be a leader? More importantly, what does it take to be a respected and successful leader? In the movie, Cars, Lightning McQueen transitions from being a close-minded, self-centered racecar into a caring and respected leader and winner.
Throughout your life you will be placed into situations where you must lead, guide, and influence people. Knowing your own values, passions, goals, and ability to give back and raise the bar is crucial in self-discovery and motivating others. In this Disney classic, Lightning McQueen goes through this process of self-discovery and learns how to effectively lead and be a compassionate and caring person….well, car.
In the beginning of this movie, Lightning McQueen is a very popular racecar. He is caught up on his image and winning his races – even if it means he has to tear other cars down. His attitude toward others is disrespectful. In other words, he is only concerned about himself and does not care about the well-being of others. In a rush to get to the Piston Cup, a very important race, Lightning McQueen deprives his transporter of sleep so that he can be the first racecar to arrive at the destination in California. Due to this inconsiderate act and other mishaps, Lightning McQueen finds himself in a quiet, little town named Radiator Springs.
In this town, an amazing transformation takes place. Lightning McQueen meets many genuine and kind town members who soon become his closest friends. Through this small town, Lightning McQueen experiences and learns the true meaning of success and happiness. His values change from self-love, winning, popularity, and fame to friends, respecting others, and leading by example.
Important leadership qualities Lightning McQueen acquired throughout this movie include: INTEGRITY, SPORTSMANSHIP, HUMILITY, PATIENCE, TOLERANCE, GRATITUDE, LISTENING SKILLS, and HUMOR. These qualities are crucial for connecting with people in any situation. Lightning McQueen portrays his new attitude and lifestyle of leadership when he leaves Radiator Springs and is racing in the Piston Cup. In the final lap of this race, one of the three racecars crashes and cannot finish the race. Lightning McQueen was in first place when this crash occurred and without thought, his newly acquired caring instincts kicked in. With a non-regretting heart, Lightning McQueen stopped on the track, allowed the other racecar to win, and went in reverse to help the car in pain. He pushed this car back on the track and helped him finish the race. It was a true act of love and sportsmanship. This decision proved to the stadium and himself that being a leader is not always about winning. Being a respected and successful leader is about helping, motivating, and inspiring others.