What must an individual do before they can effectively lead others?

To effectively lead others, an individual must master themselves. This self-mastery involves understanding one's own strengths, weaknesses, emotions, and motivations. When a leader has a deep self-awareness, they can better manage their behaviors and responses, allowing them to make informed decisions that positively impact their team. This foundation of self-mastery also aids in building credibility and authenticity, essential qualities for any leader.

Additionally, self-mastery enhances emotional intelligence, which is crucial for understanding and empathizing with team members. Leaders who are in tune with their own feelings can more effectively navigate the dynamics of a group and foster a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and growth.

The other options, while valuable in their own right, do not provide the same fundamental base for effective leadership. For instance, gaining external validation or increasing followers can be outcomes of good leadership, but they do not address the necessary internal work that precedes effective leadership. Developing leadership skills is also important, but these skills often stem from a deeper understanding of oneself. Thus, mastering oneself is a critical first step in the journey to becoming an effective leader.