Are Some People Born to Lead? | eLearning Marketplace

Whether people are born to lead is a question that has been debated for centuries. There is no easy answer, as it likely depends on a variety of factors, including genetics, personality, and life experiences.

Some people believe that there are certain innate traits that make someone a natural leader. These traits may include charisma, intelligence, decisiveness, and the ability to motivate others. Others believe that leadership is a learned skill, and that anyone can become a leader with the right training and experience.

There is some evidence to support both sides of the argument. For example, studies have shown that certain personality traits, such as extroversion and agreeableness, are more common in leaders than in the general population. However, these studies also show that leadership skills can be learned and developed.

When we look at the leaders around us – be it our employer or the Prime Minister – we might find ourselves wondering exactly why these individuals excel in such positions.

There are a number of leadership theories that have emerged over the years. Early leadership theories focused on what qualities distinguished between leaders and followers, while subsequent theories have looked at other variables such as, situational factors and skill levels. Formal leadership theories are those that focus on the principles of good management and emphasise the importance of structure, hierarchy, and the decision-making processes.

You’ve probably heard the saying “born to lead”, which comes from the Great Man Theory of leadership. According to history¹, this theory claimed great leaders were heroes, that were able to rise against the odds to defeat rivals while inspiring followers along the way. Theorists say that these leaders were then born with a specific set of traits and attributes that make them ideal candidates for leadership and roles of authority and power.

Here are some of the factors that may contribute to whether someone is born to lead:

Genetics: Some studies have shown that certain personality traits, such as extroversion and agreeableness, are more common in leaders than in the general population. This suggests that there may be a genetic component to leadership.
Personality: People who are born with certain personality traits, such as charisma, intelligence, and decisiveness, may be more likely to become leaders. These traits can help people to motivate others, make decisions, and take risks.
Life experiences: People who have had certain life experiences, such as being raised in a family with strong leadership values or having to overcome adversity, may be more likely to become leaders. These experiences can help people to develop the skills and confidence they need to be effective leaders.

Twin study research has estimated the genetic component of leadership to be 30%, whereas environmental influences account for 70% . However, there is still quite a lot of debate about whether children born to great leaders are more likely to be great leaders than those children who aren’t. Poland’s president and prime minister in 2006 were twins; I wonder whether either of their parents were great leaders?

So, what other characteristics make a good leader? Well there are many leadership theories, including those listed below.

Trait Theories: This theory of leadership suggests that certain personal traits are essential for effective leadership. These traits, as mentioned above can be hereditary, nd may include intelligence, charisma, decisiveness, and the ability to motivate others.

Contingency Theories: According to this theory, no leadership style is best in all situations. Success depends upon a number of variables, including the leadership style, qualities of the followers and aspects of the situation.

Behavioral Theories: Behavioral theories of leadership focus on the behaviors that leaders exhibit. These behaviors can be categorised as either task-oriented or people-oriented. Task-oriented leaders focus on setting goals, planning, and organising. People-oriented leaders focus on building relationships, developing employees, and creating a positive work environment.

Situational Theories: Situational theories propose that leaders choose the best course of action based upon situational variables. Different styles of leadership may be more appropriate for certain types of decision-making.

Behavioral Theories: Behavioral theories of leadership focus on the behaviors that leaders exhibit. These behaviors can be categorised as either task-oriented or people-oriented. Task-oriented leaders focus on setting goals, planning, and organising. People-oriented leaders focus on building relationships, developing employees, and creating a positive work environment.

Participative Theories: Participative leaders encourage participation and contributions from group members and help group members feel more relevant and committed to the decision-making process.

Management Theories: Management theories, also known as transactional theories, focus on the role of supervision, organisation and group performance. These theories base leadership on a system of rewards and punishments. Managerial theories are often used in business; when employees are successful, they are rewarded; when they fail, they are reprimanded or punished.

Relationship Theories: Relationship theories, also known as transformational theories, focus upon the connections formed between leaders and followers. Transformational leaders motivate and inspire people by helping group members to see the importance and higher good of the task.

Ultimately, whether someone is born to lead or not is likely a matter of degree. Some people may have a natural inclination towards leadership, while others may need to work harder to develop their leadership skills. However, there is no doubt that anyone can become a leader with the right motivation and opportunity.

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