Why leading by example works better in the real world

In Invictus, there’s a scene where Nelson Mandela asks Fran?ois Pienaar, the South African rugby captain:

“What is your philosophy on leadership, Fran?ois? How do you inspire your team to do their best?”

Pienaar replies, “By example. I’ve always thought to lead by example, sir.”

Mandela nods, adding, “That is exactly right. But how to get them to be better than they think they can be? That is very difficult, I find. Inspiration, perhaps.”

The dialogue left me reflecting on my own leadership style. While Mandela’s observation about inspiration is powerful, I think leading by example is the cornerstone of great leadership, particularly in today’s fast-moving, high-pressure environments. Inspiration is crucial, but it’s a long game. When immediate results matter, people look not for lofty ideals but for action.

Let me explain why I feel so strongly about this and why I think “walking the talk” remains the most effective way to lead.

Leadership in action: why example beats inspiration

1. The power of immediate solutions

In a crunch, nothing beats action. Teams don’t need abstract ideals when a system crashes or a client is furious, they need clear direction and someone who shows them how to handle the chaos. This is where leading by example shines.

I’ve seen this in many projects where unexpected challenges arise. Instead of delivering a pep talk from the sidelines, stepping in to help troubleshoot or streamline tasks has always led to faster solutions and a team that feels supported. Leading by example creates an instant impact that no speech could replicate.

2. Accountability starts at the top

Mandela was right when he said leading by example is “exactly right.” Actions define the culture. If I want my team to be accountable, I must show them what that looks like. If I want them to own their mistakes, I need to own mine first.

I once admitted in a review meeting that a strategy I had backed wasn’t working. The result? A team that wasn’t afraid to bring up concerns or suggest changes. By modelling accountability, I made it okay for others to step up and take responsibility.

3. Real learning happens in the trenches

Some lessons can’t be taught in a presentation or a handbook. Watching someone handle a real-life challenge is often the best way to learn. Leadership by example turns every crisis into a live masterclass.

For instance, during a high-pressure situation, I worked alongside my team to resolve the issue, breaking down the problem into smaller, manageable parts. I ensured clear communication, set priorities, and demonstrated staying composed under pressure. This not only resolved the challenge but also showed the team a framework they could follow in similar situations.

These hands-on moments become the foundation of how people learn to navigate challenges themselves. It’s not just about solving the issue, it’s about showing them the “how.”

But isn’t inspiration important?

Mandela’s point about inspiration is valid, it’s what pushes people beyond their limits. But here’s the thing: Inspiration without action feels hollow. When teams are struggling, they don’t just need to be told they can do better; they need to see it happening.

Think of inspiration as the fuel for long-term growth, while leading by example is the engine that gets the car moving. Without that initial action, the fuel doesn’t do much.

Blending action and inspiration

The truth is, it’s not about choosing one over the other, it’s about combining them. Start with action to build trust and credibility, and then use that foundation to inspire.

• Start with action: During a project overhaul, I rolled up my sleeves and worked alongside the team to refine the architecture. By demonstrating commitment, I earned their respect and trust.
• Follow with inspiration: Once we achieved a breakthrough, I connected it to our bigger vision. I didn’t just tell them we were improving the system, I showed them how this change would enhance customer satisfaction and open doors for future innovations.

Leading by example in everyday moments

One of my favourite parts of Invictus is when Mandela shares how he found strength during his 27 years in prison by reading the poem “Invictus.” That resilience, quietly modelled, became a foundation for how he led his nation. Mandela didn’t just talk about unity, he lived it.

In my own work, I’ve tried to take a similar approach, not just in big, dramatic moments but in the everyday decisions that define leadership:

• Owning my mistakes: If I miss a deadline or make a wrong call, I’m upfront about it.
• Being hands-on: Whether it’s testing a prototype or helping with documentation, I’m in the mix.
• Showing humility: I’ve learned from junior team members and encouraged reverse mentorship, which empowers everyone to contribute.

Conclusion: the case for leading by example

Mandela’s observation: “How to get them to be better than they think they can be? That is very difficult, I find.” is a question every leader grapples with. And while inspiration plays a role, it’s leading by example that paves the way for inspiration to take root.

When you show your team what accountability, resilience, and adaptability look like, you create a culture where these values thrive. You don’t just tell them they can do better, you show them how.

In the end, leading by example doesn’t just solve problems; it builds trust, shapes culture, and empowers teams to go beyond what they thought was possible. That’s why, for me, it’s the single most powerful tool in leadership.

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