By Chris Brady Leaders lead because it is the right thing to do, because it is "in them," and because they were born for it. Sometimes, it even gets recognized. For this reason, I particularly like it when historians dig up lost stories of selfless sacrifice by unsung leaders. This exerpt from Alan Axelrod is interesting, partly … [Read more...]
Robert E. Lee and Self-Denial
By Orrin Woodward Robert E. Lee -- the Virginian, American and Civil War general -- was a great leader because he had great character. General Lee taught that you are not worthy to lead until you take your focus off yourself and focus on serving your team. Here are some thoughts out of H. W. Crocker’s phenomenal book called Robert E. Lee on … [Read more...]
When All Is Said and Done
By Orrin Woodward I once read the following quote: “And remember, when all is said and done, much more is said than is ever done.” I believe strongly in discussion and gathering all the facts. But all the facts in the world will not amount to anything until someone makes a decision and follows through. Think back to organizations you … [Read more...]
The Sacred Path
By Steve D’Annunzio Life’s journey has two paths to choose between: the Sacred Path or the scared path. Notice how close the two words are: the “c” is in a different place and yet the two words have opposite meanings. Just as the two words have opposite meanings, so do we get opposite results when we choose one over the other. The Sacred … [Read more...]
Two Important Questions
By Chris Brady There are two important questions we should each ask ourselves on a regular basis: Ten years from now, what will I wish I had done today? If I knew I couldn't fail, what would I be working on? Life is complicated. No matter who you are, you will encounter problems and challenges. There are endless tasks to … [Read more...]
The Perseverance Quotient
By Orrin Woodward Many of us have heard the oft repeated adage regarding the pursuit success that quips it is nothing more than getting up just one more time after you have fallen down. The inspirational story, "Giving Up Too Soon," illustrates the point and goes something like this: A man meets a guru in the road. The man asks the guru, … [Read more...]
The Enlightened Entrepreneur
By Steve D’Annunzio The Constitution of the United States does not guarantee us freedom and prosperity; it merely provides us the opportunity to pursue those ideals. Each individual is responsible for securing their own freedom and prosperity. The best way to achieve this is by enlightened entrepreneurship. Free enterprise is a system of … [Read more...]
Leadership Lessons from Burgoyne’s Downfall
By Chris Brady In June of 1777, flamboyant General "gentleman Johhny" Burgoyne initiated his attack on the colonies from Canada. He commanded over seven thousand infantrymen, a combination of British redcoats and Hessian mercenaries, a small army of artillery specialists and 138 cannon, 400 Native Americans, and some Canadians and colonial … [Read more...]
What Will Be Your Legacy?
By Orrin Woodward George Washington took an incredible risk to be part of the Revolutionary War. He had plenty of land and was doing “pretty good.” Why would someone get involved in a conflict where the colonists were severe underdogs? George lived by principles and he would rather sacrifice his wealth than his principles. There were many … [Read more...]
Awakening to Soul Purpose
By Steve D’Annunzio There are two kinds of people in this world: awake or asleep; lightbearers and sleepwalkers. People who are awake honor life, thus making the most of the grand possibilities that human life offers. Those who are asleep are predominantly unhappy and blame their unhappiness on someone or something else. Lightbearers find … [Read more...]