According to the army, how is leadership defined?

Leadership in the context of the army is defined as influencing people to accomplish missions. This definition emphasizes the relational aspect of leadership, which involves motivating and guiding individuals or teams to reach specific objectives. It highlights that effective leaders do not merely direct or manage; they inspire and empower their subordinates to perform at their best and work towards common goals.

The focus on influence underscores that leadership is not just about authority or positional power but hinges on the ability to connect with people, communicate a vision, and cultivate a sense of purpose among team members. This aspect is crucial in military operations, where teamwork and cohesion are vital for mission success.

In contrast, managing resources, developing strategies, or training subordinates, while important components of the broader leadership framework, do not capture the essential quality of leadership as directly related to influence and motivation. They are more tactical and operational aspects rather than the foundational principle of leadership.