Leadership is based on personal example, good management practices, and moral responsibility. Every person in the Navy must set an example of military ideals and give personal attention and supervision to personnel below them in the chain of command. The Navy defines leadership as the art of influencing people to progress towards the accomplishment of a specific goal. Leadership occurs when one person influences other people to work toward a definite goal.
You've heard the expression "leaders are born, not made" or "that person's a born leader." No one is "born leader." Many people are "natural" leaders because of their strong, magnetic personality or because of their natural ability to learn rapidly. However, such people are the exception, not the rule. Because leaders aren't "born," they must be trained. There are three elements that make an effective leader. They are moral principles, personal example, and administrative ability.
Moral principles include honesty, integrity, and loyalty. These principles of human conduct provide direction, solidity, and consistency to leadership. The key to leadership is the emphasis you place on personal moral responsibility. You show personal moral responsibility by being honest and loyal. Your shipmates see those traits as your moral character. And a strong moral character influences others in a positive manner.
Personal example - Leading by personal example goes along with moral responsibility. Effective leaders have many leadership traits, such as know-how, sincerity, and courage. Which trait is the most important is a matter of opinion. However, if you show weakness in any trait a worker think is important, you lose that person's respect. Respect isn't automatically given to a leader because of authority. You have to earn respect and confidence of personnel working for you by setting a good example. Lead your workers; don't drive them.
