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Leadership is one of the most studied and debated topics in psychology and business. The question that often arises is whether leaders are born with certain traits and abilities (nature) or if these qualities can be cultivated through experience, education, and environment (nurture). This age-old debate has implications for how we approach leadership development and identify potential leaders.
So, are great leaders born, or are they made?
The Case for Innate Leadership (Nature)
Some people seem destined to lead, don’t they? Advocates of the “born leader” theory argue that leadership is something you’re born with rather than something you learn. Traits like charisma, confidence, decisiveness, and emotional intelligence often come naturally to certain individuals, giving them a head start when it comes to stepping into leadership roles.
Take historical figures like Alexander the Great and Queen Elizabeth I. From a young age, they displayed extraordinary abilities to inspire loyalty and command attention, as though leadership was woven into their very DNA. Their natural magnetism and vision make it easy to see why many believe leadership is an innate quality.
Science adds weight to this argument too. Researchers at University College London discovered that around 25% of leadership behaviours could be traced to genetic factors. In other words, there’s evidence to suggest that some people are simply born with a greater capacity to lead.
And then there’s emotional intelligence (EQ)—a key ingredient in effective leadership. Research highlights that certain genetic variations can influence how we process emotions, which in turn shapes our sensitivity and responsiveness. These innate abilities to connect with and guide others often set natural-born leaders apart
The Case for Learned Leadership (Nurture)
While some people may seem naturally inclined to lead, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest that leadership is a skill that can be developed. It’s not just about being born with certain traits; it’s about learning the tools, strategies, and behaviours that make someone effective. Many of today’s most successful leaders have built their abilities over time, relying on experience, mentorship, and education to grow.
Take Abraham Lincoln, for example. His early years were marked by failure and rejection, hardly the hallmarks of a natural-born leader. But through perseverance, self-reflection, and a commitment to learning from his mistakes, Lincoln transformed himself into one of history’s most respected leaders. His journey is a testament to the idea that leadership can be nurtured and developed.
Another example is Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors. Barra started her career at GM as a co-op student, steadily working her way up through various roles within the company. Her rise to leadership wasn’t about innate charisma or natural dominance; it was about hard work, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Today, she’s widely regarded as a transformative leader, showing how dedication and growth can lead to remarkable achievements.
Leadership development programmes and higher education, like MBAs, are also designed to equip aspiring leaders with essential skills such as strategic thinking, conflict resolution, and decision-making. These structured opportunities demonstrate that leadership isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted—it’s something anyone can develop with the right resources and effort.
The Intersection of Nature and Nurture
It’s clear that leadership isn’t solely about being born with certain traits or entirely about learning them later on. In reality, it’s a blend of both innate qualities and acquired skills. Modern neuroscience tells us that our brains are incredibly adaptable, a concept known as neuroplasticity. This means we can develop and enhance our leadership abilities throughout our lives. Engaging in new experiences and deliberate practice can strengthen the neural pathways associated with effective leadership.
Adding to this, the Situational Leadership Model, developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, highlights the importance of adaptability in leadership. This model suggests that effective leaders adjust their style based on the readiness and competence of their team members. By combining inherent traits with learned behaviours, leaders can respond more effectively to varying situations and meet their team’s needs.
Implications for Organisations
Organisations often face a common challenge: should they focus on identifying natural-born leaders or invest in developing leadership skills across the workforce? While recognising innate leadership abilities can be valuable, many experts argue that creating opportunities for employees to grow into leadership roles is far more effective. Research shows that organisations fostering a growth mindset see improvements in innovation, engagement, and overall performance.
Investing in leadership development programmes allows employees to build essential skills, including communication, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. These programmes don’t just benefit individuals, they also encourage a culture where different leadership styles are valued, creating a more inclusive and dynamic workplace.
Leadership is a Journey
The question of whether leaders are born or made doesn’t have a simple answer. Leadership is neither entirely an inborn gift nor something you can learn overnight. Instead, it’s a combination of the two, a delicate balance of natural ability and hard-earned skills. The best leaders are those who are self-aware, willing to learn, and committed to growing into their roles.
Research into leadership development consistently shows that success comes to those who take the time to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, seek out opportunities to improve, and stay open to new ideas. It’s this blend of innate potential and a growth mindset that allows leaders to truly thrive.
Whether you’re someone who naturally inspires others or someone who has worked tirelessly to build their confidence and skills, what matters most is your willingness to grow. Leadership isn’t a fixed trait; it’s an ongoing journey of evolution and discovery, driven by your dedication to becoming the best version of yourself.
