Are some people born leaders

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If this is true, that means anyone can become a leader if they want to be. That would mean entire companies might have whole teams of leaders ready to break free. Then learn about some common traits found in great leaders and how you can develop these, too. Researchers across the globe have tried answering this question. One famous debate at the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy in took two groups from the Academic Fellows Program and had them argue over which side had the most evidence in their favor.

These groups looked at several studies of twins to compare leadership traits. The findings were not as conclusive as they likely hoped. The side which argued that leaders are born, not made, showed examples of twins who demonstrated impressive leadership capabilities, such as astronauts Mark and Scott Kelly. The two groups concluded that the answer likely involved some element of both nature and nurture.

Most experts agree that exceptional leaders make time to develop their craft. For this reason, the following ares some people born leaders should be of particular focus when working on increasing leadership abilities. Team members who see this will want to mimic this behavior as well. The best leaders have an unyielding appetite for learning.

They keep up with the news, seek new ways to solve problems, and read about topics outside their expertise. For historical examples of natural-born leaders vs. Ultimately, the nature vs. While some individuals may indeed be born leadersmany others develop their leadership skills over time through experience and training. Its likely that leadership is shaped by both innate qualities and environmental factorswith neither being entirely dominant.

The key takeaway is that no matter where someone starts, leadership can be cultivated. This will give you a broader understanding of the complex interplay between nature and nurture. You can also read about:. Are leaders born or made? The Nature Vs Nurture Dilemma. Are Leaders Born or Made? The Importance of a Good Leadership. This theory also posits that outstanding leadership requires lifelong learning and commitment.

The best leaders will continuously seek out development opportunities that help them grow and progress rather than relying on their natural abilities and inherited characteristics.

Are some people born leaders

Those who believe in the Behavioral leadership theory typically argue that leaders can develop the traits associated with these and other effective leadership styles. One can learn to be an effective communicator, for example, or to build strong relationships with their colleagues. Consider the number of leadership books, courses, podcasts, YouTube videos, and other resources that are available today.

The strength and expansiveness of the leadership industry also back up the idea that leaders can be made instead of born. Research from K. Anders Ericsson suggests that deliberate practice is one of the most critical factors in someone mastering any skill — including the skills needed to become a great leader. Every year, corporations across the globe spend billions of dollars on leadership development courses and activities.

These investments are meant to contribute to individual and group growth, helping the organisation thrive and become more profitable. Admittedly, professionals have mixed views on the effectiveness of leadership training. Some find it highly worthwhile, while others question its long-term impact. However, the fact that new resources are continuously released suggests that they have had at least some positive effects.

For those who believe in the idea that leaders are made rather than born, it makes sense that every great leader would have to start as a follower. Suppose someone starts in the follower or subordinate role. In that case, they will likely have more empathy and genuine concern for their team members when they eventually rise and take on a leadership position.

At one point, they were in the same place as their current subordinates. Because of their history, they understand the challenges of the job and know what kind of leadership they would have liked to have when they were a follower. Starting as a follower, rather than immediately being thrust into a leadership position, also creates more opportunities for learning and growth.

Many professionals believe that effective leadership comes from continuously facing and overcoming obstacles. If one has never done this, they might struggle to cope with the challenges of leadership — even if they have the genetic predisposition to be a great leader. Their deliberate effort may lead to ongoing study and an openness to new views — both of which can make them more effective managers or directors.

In some situations, passion and purpose may make up for lack of natural ability or at least help to fill in the gaps.