What is meant by "leadership by example"?

Leadership by example refers to the practice of demonstrating the behaviors, values, and attitudes that you want others to adopt and emulate. It emphasizes the idea that leaders should model the standards they expect from their team members. When leaders exhibit desired behaviors, such as integrity, accountability, and a strong work ethic, they create a clear and tangible template for others to follow. This approach fosters trust and respect, encouraging team members to mirror these positive traits in their own actions and decision-making processes, thus enhancing overall team cohesion and effectiveness.

The other options do not align with the concept of leadership by example. Setting unattainable goals does not provide a realistic or motivational framework for others to follow. Leading through directives only may lack the personal involvement needed to inspire and guide others effectively, while encouraging others to lead themselves can be part of a broader leadership strategy but does not specifically address the importance of leaders modeling the behaviors they wish to see in their teams.