Want to be a great leader? We asked 11 pro athletes to share the trait that matters most

Leadership is a multifaceted trait that can vary based on the individual leader, the personalities of the team, and the environment in which they operate. However, regardless of the context, there exists one trait that stands out as the most crucial for a leader: their work ethic.

Jayden Daniels, a quarterback for the Washington Commanders, emphasized that as a leader, you cannot expect others to work hard if you are not willing to do the same. His belief is that leading by example is essential in order to inspire others to put in the necessary effort.

Adaptability is another key trait identified by players from various sports. Chelsea Gray, a guard for the Las Vegas Aces, highlighted the importance of adjusting to different situations, such as injuries or changes in energy levels during a game. Becky Hammon, her coach, illustrated adaptability by adjusting her leadership style according to the specific needs of her team.

Positive character and focus on strengths are also vital traits for effective leadership. Charlie Davies, a former MLS and USMNT player, stressed the importance of maintaining a positive attitude even during challenging times. Jack Drury, a center for the Nashville Predators, noted that great leaders adapt their approach based on their personality and the specific requirements of their team, while still being consistent in their behavior.

Consistency in behavior and attitude is equally important, as it fosters trust among teammates and encourages them to follow the leader's lead. Jeff Francoeur, a former MLB player, recounted how Bobby Cox, his manager during his time with the Atlanta Braves, remained the same person regardless of the team's performance. Conversely, Dayton Moore, his subsequent manager with the Kansas City Royals, prioritized discussing non-baseball topics during locker room meetings, demonstrating a level of consistency that Francoeur appreciated.

Fairness and honesty are crucial for a leader to maintain the trust and respect of their team, as Lo’eau LaBonta, a midfielder for the Kansas City Current, emphasized. By being consistently honest and fair, a leader can ensure that their voice carries weight and that their team feels confident in following their guidance.

Effective delegation is another essential aspect of leadership, as Mikaela Shiffrin, a gold medal skier, explained. A great leader knows when to delegate tasks based on their team members' strengths, ultimately optimizing the overall performance of the team. Authenticity is also vital, as Zaza Pachulia, a former NBA player, pointed out. Being authentic builds trust and helps leaders establish strong relationships with their teammates, ultimately driving the team towards success.