The Top 6 Myths About Leadership Debunked

So many myths about leadership abound that it’s hard to tell facts from fiction. Some say that you’re born a leader. Others say that you must be an extrovert to lead others. Then there’s the common myth that only the boss can be a leader. In reality, everyone can develop the necessary skills to become a great leader.

The problem with believing misconceptions about leadership is that you can end up being a lousy leader. Or you may not reach your full leadership potential because you think that you weren’t born with the right skills. Then, there are different styles of leadership—all suited to various types of organizations and goals.

In this article, you will find out about the most common myths associated with leadership.

Leadership Defined

There are many ways to define leadership. Generally, leadership means motivating a group of people to achieve a common goal. Leadership is connected with inspiring others, organizing tasks, and communicating a vision to others. In this sense, leaders differ from managers. Leaders emphasise innovation, whereas managers tend to focus on structure.

Related reading: How to define leadership in the modern workplace.

The Top Myths About Leadership

Let’s look in detail at the top myths about what makes a great leader.

Myth 1 — Great leaders are born, not made

The most common myth about leadership is that you’re born with it. While it’s true that some people are more natural leaders, leadership is a skill you can acquire. Many life experiences can teach you the necessary traits to become a successful leader. These could be patience, understanding, or resilience.

The truth is that anyone can become a leader if they choose to become one.

Myth 2 — Leaders must be extroverts

Many people wrongly believe that you must be an extrovert to lead well. However, the truth is that some of the most outstanding leaders were introverts. In fact, introverts have many qualities that make them excellent leaders.

For example, introverts usually listen to others and reflect on matters. These are two critical components of making sound decisions.

In reality, both extroverts and introverts have strengths and weaknesses when it comes to leadership.

Myth 3 — Leaders are in management roles

A common misconception about leadership is that leaders hold positions of responsibility. However, being a boss, manager, or even ‘team leader’ doesn’t automatically mean that you inspire and motivate others. Some of the best leaders in an organization are those who exert a positive influence over others.

Myth 4 — Leaders must know it all

It would be foolish to assume that you must know it all to take up a leadership position. Leaders who think they know it all tend to be the worst ones. Typically, they are not open to new ideas or refuse to listen to subordinates.

On the other hand, outstanding leaders are always willing to learn from others. They ask questions. And they even admit their mistakes if they were wrong.

Top leadership tip: Remember that your team of experts probably knows more about the task than you do.

Myth 5 — One leadership style fits all

It’s a myth that there is a “one-size-fits-all” leadership style. Some people in leadership roles learn some management skills that work well. However, they stick with those techniques and eventually become irrelevant.

For example, managing a few employees in a start-up is different from leading an organization of hundreds of workers.

To become an inspirational leader who is relevant in the workplace, you need to update your leadership skills constantly. As technology changes and the workforce diversifies, it’s vital to continue to nurture your skills.

Myth 6 — Leadership means getting results  

In a results-driven culture, you could be mistaken for believing that metrics are all that matters. Some leaders are prepared to sacrifice relationships to get results. However, that leadership style often results in low team morale, high staff turnover, and decreased productivity.

The most outstanding leaders know that the best, most productive teams, are made up of highly-motivated individuals. While results are vital to a company’s success, great leaders stay connected with themselves and others. Outstanding leadership is about people and helping them achieve results.

Myths About Leadership — In Conclusion

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about what makes a great leader. Each leader has their own style, personality, and approach. While there are many leadership styles, the best leaders motivate team members to reach a specific goal.