Which of the following is NOT a function of leadership?

The correct identification of planning and budgeting as not being a function of leadership centers around the distinction between leadership and management. In a leadership context, functions such as motivating and inspiring, establishing direction, and aligning people are fundamentally about guiding and influencing individuals or teams towards a vision or set of goals. These aspects emphasize the interpersonal and visionary elements of leadership, primarily focusing on engaging people and fostering a shared sense of purpose.

On the other hand, planning and budgeting are typically associated with management functions. These activities involve organizing resources, setting timelines, and ensuring that projects stay on track and within budget. While they are critical to the successful execution of tasks within an organization, they do not inherently involve the inspirational or directional qualities that characterize effective leadership. Thus, these functions align more closely with an operational role rather than a leadership role, making them less relevant to the essence of what leadership entails.