In pointing out that leaders have nothing to prove but everything to prove, the authors noted that leaders do not have to gloat or revel in their position but must develop the trust and confidence of their team that they will:

• A. Develop unwavering confidence in their authority
• B. Publicly celebrate their own success
• C. Avoid making decisions until data is perfect
• D. Exercise good judgment; remain calm; make the right decisions when it matters most

Answer: (D)

Leaders earn trust by steady, capable action, especially when stakes are high. The best choice shows that a leader will exercise good judgment, remain calm, and make the right decisions when it matters most. This behavior demonstrates reliability and competence that the team can depend on, which builds trust and confidence. The other options don’t fit as well: relying on authority signals power rather than proven capability; celebrating one’s own success can undermine credibility; and waiting for perfect data delays action and suggests indecision.