Born vs. Taught Leaders
The question of leadership has been discussed and debated over the last few centuries. More and more scientific approaches are being taken to provide more definitive answers on what leadership consists of. While different individuals will define leadership as a born character or one fully acquired through personal growth, there is truth on both sides. Baker (2023) argues that leadership consists of both innate and developed traits. The concept of combining natural and developed traits is more suitable for modern-day leadership, which requires specific skills and abilities to succeed.
Personality Types and Character Traits Effective for Leadership
Moreover, there are personality types and traits that are more effective in leadership. Leaders usually tend to be more confident, risk-taking, and adaptive. At the same time, some traits cannot be natural, such as honesty and foresight in planning (Baker, 2023).
Critique of the “Great Man” Model of Leadership
Nevertheless, other factors can affect a leader’s position. Cherry (2022) reviews concepts such as the great man or trait theories, which focus on one side of the question. On the other hand, there are more flexible theories that propose ideas that leadership arises within the right environment and situation. It may be that the circumstances surrounding an individual forced him to become a leader at some point.
Leaders Narcissists
Some personality types also tend to have more leadership abilities. Simmons (2020) argues that alongside great and empathetic leaders, many narcissistic individuals are given high positions within the company. Their only goal is to fulfill their own desires, with no regard for the company they govern. Here, narcissists tend to become leaders more often than other personality traits, which is a growing concern for many large corporations. Still, there is a place for real leaders who bring their groups to prosperity.
References
Baker, C. (2023). Are leaders born or made? Leaders.
Cherry, K. (2022). The major leadership theories. Verywillmind.
Simmons, L. (2020). How narcissistic leaders destroy from within. Stanford Business.