What is Transformational Leadership?

In my book, A Leader Worth Imitating, I explain that leaders have the power to transform people’s lives (Principle 18). This change can either be positive or negative. 

If you as a leader want to make a positive change in the lives of those you lead, learning about the components of transformational leadership is a great place to start!

There are four components to transformational leadership. The following definitions are from the book Transformational Leadership by Bernard M. Bass and Ronald E. Riggio. 

1. Idealized Influence: “Transformational leaders behave in ways that allow them to serve as role models for their followers” (p. 6).
2. Inspirational Motivation: “Transformational leaders behave in ways that motivate and inspire those around them by providing meaning and challenge to their followers’ work” (p. 6).
3. Intellectual Stimulation: “Transformational leaders stimulate their followers’ efforts to be innovative and creative by questioning assumptions, reframing problems, and approaching old situations in new ways” (p. 7). 
4. Individualized Consideration: “Transformational leaders pay special attention to each individual follower’s needs for achievement and growth by acting as a coach or mentor” (p. 7). 

_{Originally posted on July 5, 2023. Last updated on October 28, 2025.}

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If your interested in learning more about the four components of transformational leadership, check out the accompanying posts:

• What is Idealized Influence?
• What is Inspirational Motivation?
• What is Intellectual Stimulation?
• What is Individualized Consideration?