The discussion regarding the qualities and traits of leadership, whether they are learned or acquired, is one that is ongoing and difficult. According to Yuki and Gardner (2020) certain leadership traits and skills are directly correlated to performance and effectiveness. These traits and skills are likely to influence the probability that a person will be selected for a leadership position, and then, subsequent success and advancement in the position that varies situationally. Based on my perspectives and personal experience, I would say that the latter from the maxim, “great leaders create great situations” is the truer statement. There are scenarios, whether good or bad, which develop a leader in a way that they peak in their success. However, usually there was already some element inside the leader, the very traits referred to in the textbook, which allowed them to become great. The situation may have sparked it, but in my experience, they were usually the instigators of the situation which allowed the leader to find means of reaching their potential.
It is due to their skills and capabilities that great leaders are able to create these significant situations of ultimate success, achievement, or innovation. That is, because they have the competences to navigate their companies and teams towards the best outcomes. They possess the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills to inspire and generate teamwork that produces the necessary results. Great leaders are the ones that in their decision-making, take weighted but bold risks and do not accept the status quo. That is why I would argue, that the latter part of the maxim is correct. In great situations, leaders cannot proportionally develop their greatness because they are not the ones who got there based on their qualities, they are not the ones in control based on this logical conclusion.
Reference
Yuki, G.A., & Gardner, W.L. (2020). Leadership in organization (9th ed.). Pearson.