Leadership in their own words
In her book Impatient Optimist, a book of quotes by founder and former CEO of Microsoft, Bill Gates, Lisa Rogak draws on numerous interviews that Mr. Gates has given over the years, breaking them down under various subject headings. The result is a picture of a man who founded a company that changed the way we do practically everything. A few examples:
On creativity: "We tell people that if no one laughs at at least one of their ideas, they're probably not being creative enough."
On his work habits: "I'm not big on to do lists."
On success: "Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can't lose."
In Theodore Roosevelt, CEO by Alan Axelrod, over 130 leadership "lessons" are given using 7 basic principles that the 26th President of the United States followed. These principles include: Lead the: Strenuous Life, the Learning Life, the Teaching Life, the Innovative Life, Executive Life, Political Life, the Steward's Life. Each lesson is prefaced with a quote by the great TR himself. Some examples:
Lesson 28 – Listen Actively. "I need your advice and counsel" – At his first cabinet meeting in 1901 after becoming president after the death of William McKinley.
Lesson 52 – Originate. "It is always better to be an original than an imitation" - He took care to use the word "an" in his statement meaning to be an original is to be a leader.
Want to read more words of inspiration from great leaders? Why not try the following titles:
"Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower."
Steve Jobs
"As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others."
Bill Gates
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