What is the true meaning of leadership according to Robert Reich?

According to Robert Reich, true leadership is not about being naturally charismatic, having formal authority, or simply having many followers. Instead, leadership has a moral dimension and involves helping people undertake the hard work necessary for positive social change. Reich emphasizes that leadership means bridging the gap between societal ideals and reality. He points to figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. who had no formal authority yet were profound leaders. Unlike Hitler or Stalin who had followers but lacked moral leadership, true leaders inspire people to feel empowered to address social gaps. Leadership is fundamentally about enabling others to overcome avoidance and engage in meaningful change.