This is the fourth and last in a series of articles examining Leadership Lessons from the highly effective, world-renowned leader named Dwight D. Eisenhower, the thirty-fourth president of the United States.
We have been examining the still, highly relevant leadership lessons contained in the book entitled: Dwight Eisenhower’s Leadership Lessons. The book is free to Kindle users, and probably free to those who use other electronic book readers.
Summarizing the leadership lessons, the editors provide excellent food for thought… and action regarding improving leadership skills and results:
Hang In There. No stranger to hardship and adversity, Eisenhower had to postpone his college education for two years to help finance his brother’s schooling. He chose West Point because it was free, and when his Army career seemed stalled, he questioned his choice. But then he found mentors in Fox Conner, Douglas MacArthur, and George C. Marshall, and his talents got their chance to shine.
Pull People Together. Throughout his career, Eisenhower effectively used his warm personality and talent for enlisting people to his cause. Whether working with and leading quarrelsome allies during the war in Europe, running for president, working with Congress or addressing crisis in America and around the world, Eisenhower pulled people together.
Understand Your Assets and Use Them. Eisenhower knew that his personality was his key asset, and he never hesitated to make full use of his charm, tact, and diplomatic skills.
Do Your Key Work Behind the Scenes. As leader of the nation, Eisenhower chose to pose as a figurehead – dignified and warm, but above the fray. In reality, he was busily pulling strings to persuade others to take on jobs he wanted done.
Let Your Enemies Beat Themselves. Eisenhower avoided criticizing his adversaries by name, for fear of rousing sympathy for them. He also argued that impugning the motives of others spilled poison that could undermine his ability to make political deals.
Do you focus on, and effectively apply these critically important, enduring leadership principles in your life and work? There is always room for improvement and refinement, even among the most effective leaders. In fact, the most effective leaders are already focused on improving in each of these critical areas!
Are you among them? If not, join today! And, for the rest of your life!
