In honor of President’s Day, I am going to discuss two former U.S. President’s, Washington and Lincoln, and according to history they were two of the greatest known leaders. Let’s find out why!
Washington’s leadership style:
George Washington had the gift of silence. He knew when to speak and when not to engage in conversation with those who didn’t appreciate him or what he did. He had dignity, integrity and didn’t complain. He gathered information quickly before making important decisions. Washington set aside his differences and resolved disputes by focusing on the goal. He was known for giving basic directions to his commanders and let them make their own strategic decisions.
Quotes from George Washington:
Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all. ~ George Washington
Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire, called conscience. ~ George Washington
It is better to be alone than in bad company. ~ George Washington
Lincoln’s leadership style:
Lincoln was a great listener and people were free to oppose his point of view without fear. He was good communicator and had a clear vision of what he wanted to accomplish. He was a storyteller, had a good sense of humor, and had a way of diffusing tense situations. Lincoln was humble, descent, kind, compassionate, honest and motivated others. He had a calm demeanor and when angry he would write letters to the person he was angry with, to get out all emotion, and then he would put the letter aside.
Quotes from Abraham Lincoln:
Courage is not the absence of fear. It is going forward with the face of fear. ~ Abraham Lincoln
Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality. ~ Abraham Lincoln
Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing. ~ Abraham Lincoln
Don’t worry when you are not recognize, but strive to worthy of recognition. ~ Abraham Lincoln
The most common characteristics that both Washington and Lincoln had both were good listeners, good communicators and had the ability to diffuse confrontation situations.
Question:
What qualities do you think makes a great leader?
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