Verb
lead by example (third-person singular simple present leads by example, present participle leading by example, simple past and past participle led by example)
To show the way or demonstrate a technique to individuals or a group by going ahead or doing something before the others.
Parents must lead by example. Don't use the cliche; do as I say and not as I do. We are our children's first and most important role models. Lee Haney
But I also hold the very strong view that republicans need to lead by example. Gerry Adams
Life is never going to be perfect, as much as we want it to be, and I have to lead by example. Patsy Kensit
It is one thing to lead by example with half a dozen soldiers at your back. It is wholly another with ten thousand. Steven Erikson
I'm a practitioner of elegant frugality. I don't feel comfortable telling other people what to do, so I just try and lead by example. Amory Lovins
As a leader, these attributes - confidence, perseverance, work ethic and good sense - are all things I look for in people. I also try to lead by example and create an environment where good questions and good ideas can come from anyone. Heather Bresch