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Lincoln’s Leadership Lessons

“Whenever I hear anyone arguing for slavery, I feel a strong impulse to see it tried on him personally.” – Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln on Leadership: Executive Strategies for Tough Times  is a wonderful illustration of President Abraham Lincoln’s leadership strengths during his presidency and the Civil War written by Donald T. Phillips. Lincoln had true American spirit and used his skills to unite our country during its toughest time. While most Americans think of Lincoln and only bring to mind his nickname “Honest Abe,” I have been able to improve my leadership style and gain valuable leadership lessons from learning about his life.

The lessons listed below outline Lincoln’s identity and the characteristics that have given him the title of one of the best leaders in American History.

People

  1. Get out of the office and circulate among the troops
  2. Build strong alliances
  3. Persuade rather than coerce

Character

  1. Honesty and integrity are the best policies
  2. Never act out of vengeance or spite
  3. Have the courage to handle unjust criticism
  4. Be a master of paradox

Endeavor

  1. Exercise a strong hand – Be decisive
  2. Lead by being led
  3. Set goals and be results-oriented
  4. Keep searching until you find your “Grant”
  5. Encourage innovation

Communication

  1. Master the art of public speaking
  2. Influence people through conversationand storytelling
  3. Preach a vision and continually reaffirm it

 

“’I say try,’ he once advised Gen. George McClellan, ‘if we never try, we shall never succeed.’” This quote embodies much of what Lincoln stood for. Although many perceived him as easy, especially because he issued more pardons than any other president in history, he never feared consequences and always fought for what he believed in.

March 28, 2012 | Categories: Blogging, Uncategorized | Tags: , , , , | Leave A Comment »