The Penobscot Bay Pilot’s series, “Elements of Leadership,” features leaders in local communities who reflect on the motivations and challenges faced by those in leadership roles.

For the sixth installment of the series, District Attorney Natasha Irving responded to six questions, in her own voice.

What do you wish you knew about leadership in high school and college?

That good people can have different opinions about public policy and true leadership is as much about listening to different points of view and learning from them as it is about advocating for your own agenda. I also wish I knew that it is through setbacks, mistakes and failures that you learn and grow the most, and wasting your energy on self-pity and shame is extraordinarily unproductive.

What are the keys to developing the next generation of leaders?

Teaching our young people to develop resiliency and a real desire to understand diverse perspectives, to listen and engage empathetically, and avoid believing the worst in people because they disagree with you. Developing skills of empathy, civil discourse and dialogue with diverse viewpoints is essential genuine leadership in a robust and functional democracy.

What steps can the next generation of leaders take to put them on the right path to leadership?

First, develop a habit of a hard work ethic. Second, practice empathy and become comfortable and informed regarding perspectives that are different from your own. Third, be ready to fight for the change you believe will make the world a better place, and refuse to give up, ever.

How important is networking for successful leaders? How can the next generation of leaders best network right now?

Networking is very important. You can learn a lot from books, but the wisdom of those who have been through the trenches is priceless. Learn from everyone you can, graciously accept their wisdom, and strive to meet as many diverse leaders as possible. Staying in touch is essential to cultivating meaningful relationships, so be generous with your time, and grateful for others time.

As a leader, how do you ensure your vision becomes reality?

There is no substitute for hard work. Accomplishment is achieved through effort, and there is no substitute or work around. Expect setbacks, failures, mistakes and blunders, but do not let them stop you, at least not for long. Never stop believing in what you can accomplish through hard work. You can’t control every factor when it comes to your vision, but you can control one thing: how hard you work. The other side can be smarter, better funded, better looking, and better connected, that is out of your control. You CAN outwork them, and you have to if you want to succeed.

What’s the best advice that has been given to you?

I have received a tremendous amount of advice over the years, and it was the relationships and mentoring I received that really stands out to me. Words of wisdom that I live by, both in my career and public position, as well in my personal and family life, come from Winston Churchill: ‘Never, never, never give up.’ I tell this to my daughter multiple times a week. I tell it to myself every day. It may seem simple, but self-doubt, defeatism and discouragement can be a leader’s greatest enemy.

Reach George Harvey at: sports@penbaypilot.com.