Inspirational quotes on leadership

Inspirational quotes on leadership from historical figures and business leaders:

“A leader is best when people barely know he exists…when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will all say: We did it ourselves.”
— Lao-Tzu, an ancient philosopher and founder of Taoism

“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.”

— Sheryl Sanberg, COO of Facebook

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.”
— Antoine de Saint-Exupéry,  French writer and pioneering aviator.

“Leaders need to provide strategy and direction and to give employees the tools that enable them to gather information and insight from around the world. Leaders shouldn’t try to make every decision.”
— Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft

“As a leader, I am tough on myself and I raise the standard for everybody; however I am very caring because I want people to excel at what they are doing so that they can aspire to be me in the future.”
— Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo

“If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then, you are an excellent leader.”
— Dolly Parton, actress and singer

“Leaders are made, they are not born. They are made by hard effort, which is the price which all of us must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile.”
— Vince Lombardi, American football coach, and NFL executive.

“Leadership is the ability to guide others without force into a direction or decision that leaves them still feeling empowered and accomplished.”
– Lisa Cash Hanson, CEO of Snuggwugg.

“People ask the difference between a leader and a boss. The leader leads, and the boss drives.”
— Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States.

“People have to trust you. You have to build in trust for people.”
— Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric

“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”
— Nelson Mandela, South African political leader

“Often poor leadership is masked by those with the loudest voices and strongest opinions.”
— Nick Fewings

“Become the kind of leader that other people would follow voluntarily; even if you had no title or positon.”
— Brian Tracy, motivational speaker, best-selling author and personal development expert

Words can be powerful, but only if you follow up their inspiration with action. Remember, a great leader requires more than a title — you need drive, creativity, and a willingness to learn.

Source: 

1. https://digital.com/blog/leadership-quotes
2. https://wisetoast.com/50-inspiring-leadership-quotes

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