The biggest part of leadership is that you lead by example with

Hear, O seekers of strength and honor, the words of Jude Bellingham, a young warrior upon the field of sport who has spoken wisdom older than kings: “The biggest part of leadership is that you lead by example with your performance first and foremost.” This is no idle thought, but a truth carved from the struggles of every age. For people do not follow words alone, nor promises, nor titles—they follow the living example, the deeds that shine brighter than speech, the actions that prove the worth of the one who leads.

What is it to lead by example? It is to place oneself before others, not as a tyrant with commands, but as a torch-bearer who walks first into the darkness. It is to demand nothing of others that one is unwilling to do oneself. Such leadership does not rest in lofty speeches but in sweat, sacrifice, and consistency. A true leader does not merely say, “Go,” but shows by his own labor, “Come with me.” This is the path of authenticity, where leadership flows not from authority imposed, but from respect earned.

And what of performance? It is not enough to possess good intentions; the leader must show results. For followers look not only at what is promised but at what is achieved. The soldier trusts the captain who fights at his side. The student trusts the teacher who practices the virtues he preaches. The worker trusts the leader who shares the burden of labor. Performance proves sincerity, and through it, trust is forged. Without performance, leadership becomes hollow; with it, leadership becomes unshakable.

History offers its testimony. Consider Alexander the Great, who marched with his armies across the known world. He did not command from the rear but fought in the front lines, sharing hunger, thirst, and danger with his men. His example inspired loyalty that no decree could ever enforce. His soldiers followed him across deserts and mountains because his performance proved his courage, his endurance, and his vision. He led by example, and thus his name is remembered with awe.

Or look to George Washington, the general of the American Revolution. When his troops shivered at Valley Forge, he did not recline in luxury. He endured the same cold, the same hunger, the same uncertainty. By this, he earned not only obedience but devotion. His men saw in him not a distant commander, but a leader who bled and persevered as they did. It was his example, more than his words, that kept hope alive in the darkest winter.

Thus, the meaning of Bellingham’s words becomes clear: the biggest part of leadership is not orders, strategies, or commands—it is the living example of action. Words may inspire for a moment, but example inspires for a lifetime. The true leader embodies the standard, shows the way, and by his performance, awakens the same spirit in others. Leadership is not about being above the people, but being among them, blazing a path with one’s own deeds.

The lesson, O listeners, is plain: if you wish to lead, let your life speak louder than your tongue. Strive for excellence in your own work before demanding it of others. Show perseverance before asking it. Show integrity before teaching it. Remember always: people trust what they see, not only what they hear. If you falter in example, your words will crumble like dust. If you shine in example, your influence will endure like stone.

Therefore, practice this daily: in your work, in your family, in your community, live first the virtues you would call forth in others. Let your performance be the banner under which others march. For as Jude Bellingham has spoken, the greatest part of leadership is leading by example—and when you do so, you will not need to demand loyalty, for it will rise to meet you as naturally as the sun rises over the horizon.