Introduction
A leader is someone who has the ability to direct, motivate and make decisions on behalf of the people they are leading. The role of a leader has long been revered because of the qualities needed to lead a team or a group. In this essay, the pros and cons of being a leader will be discussed.

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The pros of being a leader are that you get to be at the forefront of a project or a goal and you can bring about change and direct a group to the path of achieving their goals. Leaders have an important role in driving the success of a group, whether it is increasing team morale, facilitating the communication between team members, or motivating each individual to reach their potential. Leaders have a great responsibility and often have to make hard decisions whilst remaining focused on what is best for the team.

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On the other hand, being a leader also has its downsides. The pressure of fulfilling the expectations placed on leaders is immense and can be overwhelming for some. Leaders are often faced with difficult decisions and have to take on greater responsibility for their team or group’s performance. It can also be difficult to manage a team or group that may clash, with each party having different opinions or ideas on the way things should be done.

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Another downside of being a leader is the lack of recognition or appreciation. Often times, a leader will put in tireless effort, but the team or team members may not show appreciation or understand the significance of their contribution. The lack of recognition can be disheartening and discouraging for a leader, but it is important to remember that they are an integral part of the team.

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Overall, the role of a leader is incredibly important and challenging, but it also has its own risks and responsibilities. Being a leader is not for everyone and one needs to carefully weigh up the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to take on the role. It is important for leaders to be aware of their strengths, weaknesses and what is expected of them in order to be successful in their role.

Conclusion
Being a leader can be both rewarding and challenging. While leaders face difficult decisions, great pressure and lack of recognition, they are also able to drive the success of a group, motivate and bring about change. It is important to assess the pros and cons of being a leader before taking on the role.