Colin Powell is a visionary leader. He has passion, commitment, and is very persistent. He never backs down from a challenge. He achieved his vision through his determination. He knew what he wanted and worked hard to get it. Many disagreed with him, yet he remained steadfast through difficult decisions. Colin Powell was the son of immigrants. He struggled through school and worked his way to the top. He is a retired four-star general and past Secretary of State. He has achieved a great deal through adversity and tough decision making. In his book, It Worked For Me In Life and Leadership, Colin Powell shares his 13 rules for being a leader.
1. It ain’t as bad as you think it will look better …show more content…
A situation can seem insurmountable but when revisited after a short break it can be tackled. He believes that no challenge is too great.
2. Get mad then get over it. Emotions are natural and normal. Colin Powell states that everyone gets mad the important thing is that you cannot stay mad. It is important to remain in control of your emotions and allow yourself to let things go.
3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it. Decision making is tough. You must have a position on an issue yet your position may be faulty or even incorrect. In a conflict or debate, you may lose. Colin Powell explains the importance of fighting for what you believe in with passion but if you do not win or you fail, you must not let your ego fall too.
4. It can be done. Colin Powell states that you must stay positive and enthusiastic. He encourages his readers to stay upbeat and believe that their goal can be reached. Believing that you can do anything can help you to remain motivated.
5. Be careful what you choose: you may get …show more content…
The choices you make are ultimately your own. A leader must make their own decisions and stick by them. It is fine to listen to others and get feedback but ultimately you must decide on your own because the leader is responsible for the outcome.
8. Check small things. Colin Powell states that a small action can have big consequences. When making a decision, leaders must consider and check into even the smallest detail.
9. Share credit. When things go well in an organization, it is important to let all members share in the success. Everyone had a role and the success was dependant one each member fulfilling that role. Powell encourages leaders to share credit.
10. Remain Calm. Be Kind. Rule 10 is common sense. It is important to stay in control of your emotions and remain calm when things get difficult. Treating others with kindness is valuable. People respond well to kind, even tempered leaders.
11. Have a vision. Be demanding. To lead you must have a clear vision. A leader needs to be committed to that vision and demand that the steps be taken to reach the organizational goal.
12. Don’t take counsel of your fears or