This last week the military and political worlds lost a giant, General Colin Powell. Gen. Powell had many accomplishments on and off the battlefield. You can agree or disagree with his politics or decisions, but there is one irrefutable fact for me, the General was a leader.
Earlier in 2021 I wrote the blog, Leaders Have Rules. The General was not in my mind when I wrote this, but it certainly applies to him. His Leadership Rules are amazingly simple, but have deep meaning if you’re in the military, in civilian business or in your personal life.
Although I am one of very many who have shared these in the last few days, I share Gen. Powell’s Leadership Rules in memory of his amazing leadership.
General Powell’s Leadership Rules:
- It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
- Get mad, then get over it.
- Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
- It can be done!
- Be careful what you choose.
- Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
- You can’t make someone else’s choices.
- Check small things.
- Share credit.
- Remain calm. Be kind.
- Have a vision. Be demanding.
- Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
- Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.
The bottom line; read these rules and apply them to your leadership