The Problems With the Cult of Leadership

Personality Traits

Elias Aboujaoude examines the correlation between personality traits and leadership ability, highlighting the challenges of altering these traits. He cites long-term studies showing that personality is largely stable over time, making it difficult to teach emotional intelligence (EQ) effectively, as it is closely linked to personality 1. Brett McKay notes that while certain skills like public speaking can be improved, the core temperament required for leadership is often innate 2.

The notion that you can teach EQ and transform EQ is highly problematic because EQ is pretty tightly linked to personality.

--- Elias Aboujaoude

This suggests that leadership training may not significantly change one's inherent leadership potential.

   

Teachability Debate

The debate over whether leadership qualities can truly be taught is longstanding, with historical and contemporary references questioning its effectiveness. Elias argues that leadership is often found rather than made, suggesting that organizations should focus on identifying natural leaders rather than trying to create them through training 3. Brett McKay reflects on historical figures like Winston Churchill and Abraham Lincoln, who became great leaders by embracing their unique personalities rather than conforming to a standard leadership mold 4.

Some of the most meaningful and significant leaderships that the world has seen, leadership found the leader, not the other way around.

--- Elias Aboujaoude

This perspective challenges the leadership development industry's focus on teachability.