Many Doctors before and after Peter Davison tended to have a 'take charge' kind of stance. When times got tough, they would immediately take control of the situation, often leaving their companions to their own devices or out of the situation completely. The Fifth Doctor, meanwhile, was more of a delegator. He felt an atmosphere of teamwork would lead to better TARDIS operations as well as better results whilst exploring a new planet. His willingness to step aside not only showed his compassion (which is another trait showed very little by previous incarnations), but his leadership skills as well. It takes a good leader to lead the way, but it takes an even better one to allow others to share the responsibility.