drum major instinct

An innate desire to succeed, to be recognized and respected for one's success, and to be a leader. From the sermon "The Drum Major Instinct" by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Having a drum major instinct is a good thing—it propels us to be our best selves. But it can also fill you with arrogance and a selfish need for attention or praise. I don't know about promoting him to a management role. He doesn't have the drum major instinct we need. These are very solid candidates for student council president. Every single one has that drum major instinct.