Pulitzer-prize winning historian Doris Kearns Goodwin knows something about leadership.
In studying presidents Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt and Lyndon Johnson for
her latest book “Leadership In Turbulent Times”, she has sought to make the concept of leadership less abstract and more practical.
All four of Goodwin’s favorite presidents were guided by morality and purpose. In times of trouble they sought to heal divisions and rally the citizenry around humanizing – and galvanizing – themes. They were able to use their skills to enlarge the lives of others.
Goodwin has found a collection of traits and patterns of behavior that served these leaders well – and would do us all well to remember – as we navigate tough situations in our public and private sectors:
Empathy – leaders need to internalize the pain of others if they want to find ways to reduce or eliminate it.
Resilience – they must have the conviction to think deeply about problems and the courage to persevere.
Communication – the right words and ideas console as well as move people to rise to the occasion.
Openness – they listen and are open to new perspectives.
Impulse Control – sometimes knowing what not to say is more important than what is said.
Relaxation – the best leaders know that getting away from the office helps them become better leaders.
Challenging times in politics and business will never go away, but thoughtful and charismatic leadership can get us through them and make us stronger on the back end.
Have a great week.
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