According to Kouzes and Posner, what is considered the foundation of leadership?

Self-confidence is recognized as the foundation of leadership according to Kouzes and Posner. This is because self-confidence allows leaders to trust in their abilities, make decisions effectively, and engage others with conviction. A confident leader is more likely to inspire trust and respect from their team, creating an environment conducive to leadership. When leaders display self-confidence, they are perceived as more capable, approachable, and decisive, which can motivate followers to achieve organizational goals.

In contrast, while experience, education, and charisma can enhance a leader’s capabilities, they do not inherently provide the self-assurance necessary to lead effectively. Experience may bring knowledge to a leader's role, education can impart skills, and charisma may attract and engage followers, but without self-confidence, these attributes may not translate into effective leadership behaviors and influence. Thus, self-confidence stands out as the fundamental trait that underpins effective leadership practices.