Survivor Palau: The Beat of the Tom Tom

The reality TV show "Survivor" has many things for many people. Suspense, intrigue, interpersonal relationships, feats of physical strength and agility, and opportunities for leadership to emerge.

(PRWEB) March 20, 2005 -- Tom Westman has emerged as the true leader of Koror and as head of this tribe, he has brought the team to victory four times in a row and got them the greatest shelter ever built on in the show's 10 seasons. But what makes a great leader? And how does one take on that role without threatening others? In Tom's case he goes beyond what most typical Survivor leaders have done in the past. It's almost like he has some kind of cult following. Tom, Tom - Tom, Tom! You can almost hear the chanting and the beating of the tribal bongos as everyone follows him, believes in him and rants about him. Wasn't it Caryn who said - `the women of Koror feel strangely compelled to follow Tom and bow to his commands'.

I believe a natural leader will always stand out and there are several traits that they all posses. If you can identify these traits in yourself or in someone else - you have your leader. They need to have a mental toughness, a willingness to take responsibility, have practical ideas and a constructive spirit along with loving the thrill of challenge. In the game of Survivor this last trait can become one of the most important - peer respect. It's not easy to do. If you come across too strong you are considered a threat, if you come across too weak you are of no value to the team, if you come across too bright you are branded a know-it-all, or if you come across too dense you are labeled a redneck.

So how did Tom do it? It could be the fact that he is a Lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department and has learned to deal with people from a leader's perspective combined with the fact that he is a family man and is also a member of various associations and societies. As they say, it's all in the presentation. Some people can serve you poison and make you happy to eat it, while others can serve you a filet mignon and repulse you.

So what makes a great leader? I believe it's a combination of personality and skills acquired over a lifetime. Tom is a mature man of 41 years old who is still physically strong. Let's see where Tom takes this tribe and if they follow him to the end. Meanwhile, it was great to see him kick butt in the last challenge against 27 year old Bobby Jon - defeating him two times in a row. I guess the last trait of a leader is strength and admiration - and Tom certainly got that going for him.

Source: ENCIRCA
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