What is the Navy's definition of “Leadership”?

The Navy defines leadership as the ability to influence, motivate, and enable others to contribute toward the effectiveness and success of the organization. This definition emphasizes the importance of not just directing and managing but also inspiring and empowering individuals within a team or organization. Effective leadership involves understanding the needs of team members and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and capable of contributing to the overall mission.

This approach aligns with Navy core values, which prioritize trust and collaboration, illustrating that effective leaders build relationships and encourage team effectiveness rather than merely focus on authority or enforce compliance. By focusing on influence and motivation, this definition highlights the dynamic nature of leadership as it relates to guiding others toward shared goals and achieving collective success.