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What Is Leadership? Meaning, Skills and Examples

Leadership is the process of influencing, guiding or enabling people toward shared objectives, decisions, change or contribution.

That definition is intentionally broader than: “being the boss.”

A leader may influence: direction; decisions; standards; relationships; culture; learning; problem-solving; action.

Formal leaders often have authority. Informal leaders may have little or no official authority but still influence what a group thinks, does or prioritizes.

Leadership can therefore appear in: organizations; classrooms; communities; families; projects; volunteer groups; professional networks; entrepreneurship.

Penagix adds another layer: How does a person's natural design influence the way they lead? One person may lead through vision. Another through teaching. Another through organization. Another through persuasion. Another through advocacy. Another through careful analysis and decision-making.

Leadership does not have to look identical in every person.

Leadership can be developed.

Explore how Natural Gifts, Skills, Values and Career Alignment can help you understand and grow your leadership capability.

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