I read this book three times. Great book and great leadership principles by Abe Lincoln. As all the Presidential nominees and candidates are on trail, I am always reminded of Lincoln's principles:
From Forbes.com:
Forbes.com: What personal qualities made Lincoln such a successful leader?
Kearns Goodwin: Lincoln had a quiet self confidence that allowed him to surround himself by people better known than he was. He knew they’d argue and debate with him. In order to strengthen his own leadership he knew that if he could have that leadership in his own political family, it would make him a better leader. [That’s] relevant for leaders in business or anywhere.
Lincoln also had the ability to absorb and listen well to what people were feeling and thinking. He could see both sides of the issue.
What leadership advice do you think Lincoln would have for President Bush, particularly in terms of Iraq and his low approval ratings?
Take account of what’s happening and open yourself up to other people’s point of view. President Bush should ask himself, what can be done better in Iraq and keeping the country on his side.
Here is snippet of Lincoln's principles in Lincoln on Leadership:
Part 1: People
Chapter 1: Get Out of the office and Circulate Among the Troops
"His cardinal mistake is that he isolates himself, & allows nobody to see him; and by which he does not know what is going on in the very matter he is dealing with."
Lincoln's reason for relieving Gen. John C. Fremont from his command in Missouri (September 9, 1861)
Lincoln Principles
Explain yourself in writing and offer advice on how to solve problems.
It is important that the people know you come among them without fear.
Seek casual contact with your subordinates. It is as meaningful as a formal gathering, if not more so.
Don't often decline to see people who call on you.
Take public opinion baths.
Be the very embodiment of good temper and affability.
Remember, everyone likes a compliment.
If your subordinates can stand it, so can you. Set a good example.
You must seek and require access to reliable and up-to-date information.
4 comments:
You have to go to Springfield Illinois Bil, land of Lincoln is so obvious there. Plan to spend at least one full day at the Lincoln museum.
The tomb is awsome, and how it is on a hill and the back side of the hill where the Lincoln Tomb is where the original tomb that held him and 2 sons.
I understand his oldest son threw out all his papers thinking that no one would want them.
Anyhow Scott McClennon is talking, apparently Rice is big on CYA, but he calls the gerbil not an intelligent type but rather instictive. Translation,........ the guys an idiot and he acts on impulse.
The book I keep rereading (about 5 times or more) is about The Battle of Thermopylae, called 'Gates of Fire' superbly written by Steven Pressfield. (He wrote The Legend of Bagger Vance BTW) It puts that awful movie 300 to shame. There's a paperback edition. I pass it onto people who need courage.
Thanks Anon for the info. I definitely will look into that book. I am an avid reader.
Chicago Native:
I haven't forgotten about the Lincoln museum that you talked about a year ago on your blog. You are right. I would have to spend a day there to see the museum.
Post a Comment