Lead by Example

Leading by example is a funny concept. I was thinking about this the other day and realized  you can only lead those who actually want to change, learn and/or advance. If those you supervise or manage have no interest in personal growth, they're just going to do the minimum to get by and let you do all the real work.

After all, that is hopefully why you became a manager/supervisor.  You were the person who went above and beyond and got things done. Then someone recognized this trait and put you in charge. 

I don't think any amount of encouragement, bribery, prodding or threatening will get an unmotivated person to follow the example of someone who is responsible, thoughtful, and hard working.

What do you think?