There is a spirit of enterprise distinctive of all true leaders, who see what needs to be done and do it, without hand-holding or waiting for orders.  Action is a keystone of leadership.   

The very concept of initiative stands upon the platform of accepting personal responsibility.  Leaders function while called upon to make decisions in often confusing situations, in possibly dangerous environments, without adequate time and/or information, making decisions to the best of their ability, then striving to make those decisions right. In short, leaders must be able to decide, and then take full responsibility for their decisions. 

The initiative of a leader also births creativity and ingenuity as the objective remains frozen and the means are bended toward its purpose. 

            Further, great leaders must have the grander picture in focus, being sure to serve the vision while serving their own interests and keeping the two aligned.  This happens automatically when a leader acts according to the convictions of his or her character.

            Finally, initiative should never be confused with recklessness, which results from either ego or ignorance.