Is Leadership A Born Trait?

Leadership is a topic that has been addressed from a number of perspectives over the past decades. There is a continuous debate over the topic, if leadership is a born trait or do people acquire those skills through conscious efforts. There are a number of theories which have been propounded over years regarding this debate. Trait Theory, and Great Man theory believe that leaders are born not made. Some people inherit some qualities and there are some inborn skills which make them leaders. There is a significant difference between learning a skill and mastering one. However. if Born Leader is the concept then why are there study courses on leadership?

Behavioral theory states that leadership qualities can be acquired by teaching, learning, observation etc. Leadership learning is a lifetime process. Does attending leadership learning programs make someone a leader? Can any certificate granting on anyone’s name make them leader? Some skills can be explained but not implanted.

Nature versus Nurture

Some people possess athletic skills or artistic talents naturally. Some people have the self confidence, energy, intelligence, enthusiasm etc. to become natural leaders. Some possess these qualities by nature. But just because a person does not naturally have those personality traits does not mean he cannot work to develop those qualities to become a leader. Everyone is influenced by their environment; family, peers, religion, education and socio-culture all determining leadership potential. So, regardless of innate abilities, leaders can be developed. Leadership can be learnt by anyone with basics qualities to put themselves ahead and risk.

Researchers and Scholars give arguments on both sides, whether it is a natural quality or learnable skill, there is no clear cut winner about this. Genetics and training are both factor in determining how to become a great leader.

Leadership is an Art rather than Science. It is a set of some innate qualities those can be perfected over time with education, observation, training and experience. Leadership can be a choice. A leader is a person who comes forward to take the challenge. Estimates of Research claim that one third of leaders are born and two third are made. Some famous names would include, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln etc.