Hǎo de lǐngdǎo yào shēntǐlìxíng, bùnéng zhǐ shuō bú zuò.
Good leaders must lead by example — not just talk without action.
Tips
history
Combines 《淮南子·氾论训》 「圣人以身体之」 ('the sage experiences it with his own body') and 《礼记·中庸》 「力行近乎仁」 ('vigorous action is close to benevolence'). Confucian — the idea that knowing isn't enough without doing.
usage
Strongly positive; used to praise someone (often a leader, teacher, or parent) who matches words with actions. Often paired with 率先 (to take the lead) or contrasted with 言行不一 (words and deeds don't match).
