The Stature of Leadership

I consider myself an independent thinker when it comes to politics, and don’t really affiliate with any specific political party. Many of my friends, however, come from very different backgrounds and political views, which makes our dinner conversations so lively, thought provoking and fun. The other night, at one of these gatherings, the topic turned to the results of the presidential election in the US. It was the kind of conversation that sticks with you, sparking questions that linger long after the plates are cleared.

As I reflected on that discussion, one thought kept circling in my mind: Why do we choose the leaders we do? What do we truly value in them?—What defines the stature of a leader?

What Defines Stature?

When we think about stature, we often picture a person’s natural height—a physical measure that makes someone literally stand out. But in leadership, stature is something far less tangible and far more meaningful. It refers to the qualities that make a person stand out from the crowd, the characteristics that command respect, inspire others, and define their presence.

Think of someone you consider a great leader. Now, think about the characteristics that made you choose that person. What are they? Some of you might think of a leader’s achievements—their position in an organization, their economic success, or the impact they’ve had on the world. Others might focus on a leader’s behaviors, like the way they speak, the way they make decisions, or their tactics to influence others. Some of you might consider how that leader treated others—their empathy, fairness, or encouragement. And some of you might have even thought about someone who, in your view, achieved great things by means with which you may not agree.

Yet, regardless of how you defined those characteristics, they all stem from something deeper—something fundamental that drives those individuals to exhibit the traits we associate with leadership. For me, that foundation lies in the values they hold, the principles they stand by, and the priorities that shape their decisions—their moral compass.

The Stature of a Leader: The Role of Followers

Leadership only exists when there are followers. It is not something someone can claim for themselves, but something granted by those who choose to follow. Without followers, there is only authority or command. Leadership happens when others decide to follow—either inspired by the leader’s moral compass or willing to overlook it for other reasons. This act of following is what gives a leader their stature, elevating them beyond mere authority and into true leadership.

In the business world, however, leaders are often not chosen by those who must follow them but are instead appointed or imposed by higher decision-makers. Even in this context, the stature of a leader is still defined by their followers. Through their engagement—whether by supporting the leader, constructively challenging them, or withdrawing entirely—followers determine the legitimacy of the leader’s values, beliefs, and actions. Without followers who align with their vision or validate their influence, even an appointed leader remains merely a figure of authority, lacking the stature of true leadership.

In this way, it is the actions and alignment of followers that ultimately define the stature of a leader.

Leadership as a Mirror

Leadership is not a one-sided relationship. A leader’s stature does not exist in isolation; it is shaped and defined by the collective choices of their followers. These decisions—whether to embrace certain qualities, tolerate shortcomings, or turn a blind eye—reveal as much about the followers as they do about the person being elevated. By choosing who to follow, we project our own values, priorities, and compromises onto the leader, giving their actions and beliefs legitimacy.

Leadership, in this sense, is a mirror. The qualities we see in a leader—be it decisiveness, empathy, boldness, or even flaws—reflect not just who they are but who we are as followers or selectors. In both the political and corporate worlds, the stature of a leader is inseparable from the values of those who elevate them.

It is a shared construct, an echo of mutual values. And as we consider the leaders we choose to follow, it’s worth asking ourselves: What does this choice reveal about us, about our own moral compass?

Why It Matters

The leaders we choose—whether in politics or business—don’t just shape the organizations or societies they lead; they set the tone. Through their actions, behaviors, and decisions, leaders become role models, influencing those who follow and the broader environment they lead. Whether we like it or not, the leaders we choose to follow or elevate will have a lasting impact, shaping the values, priorities, and direction of the societies and organizations they serve.

But there is never a perfect answer—there are no unicorns who align 100% with our own values and priorities. Choosing a leader always involves trade-offs. We must ask ourselves: What values, principles, or actions are we willing to compromise? Because these decisions have consequences—not just for us but for the communities and organizations we are part of. By choosing to follow a leader, we legitimize not only their virtues but also their flaws, granting them the power to influence and define what is acceptable, admired, or tolerated.

So, the next time we decide to follow a leader, let’s pause and ask ourselves: What does this choice reveal about us? And more importantly, are we comfortable with the answer and potential consequences?

Ximena Jimenez

Founder - Managing Director LITup

Care for a chat? book a call here