Teaching Leadership by Example

Being able to serve as a positive example for others is a critical trait of a successful leader, though it is especially important in the military. When an individual takes command of a situation or group of people, they are subsequently responsible for their actions. To teach leadership, one must fully accept responsibility for any and all outcomes, considering both the positives and negatives. When a leader sets an example of how they can be effective at promoting these various positive traits among their followers, they are significantly more likely to instill these various traits in those working below them. In many cases, including the military as well as the professional world, it is through the development of a positive example of leadership that one is able to encourage the development of appropriate and effective leadership skills in those one works with on a routine basis. Providing support, understanding, and the opportunity to learn, an effective leader is able to lead by example, setting the stage for the creation of other leaders that will, in turn, have a positive effect on others.