They say, “No man is an island.” Well, try telling that to any manager who’s refereeing an office dispute, running herd on a staff of classic underachievers, or slamming the brakes on a production schedule that’s a runaway train.
As managers, we’ve all experienced those defining moments when you throw your hands up in disgust and scream under your breath, “Why me? Why now?” When those moments occur – and they will far too often – you can draw strength and inspiration from the words of those who’ve faced far worse challenges and not only survived, but thrived.
“You do not lead by hitting people over the head – that’s assault, not leadership.”
Dwight D. Eisenhower
“Leadership is a matter of having people look at you and gain confidence, seeing how you react. If you’re in control, they’re in control.”
Tom Landry
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
John Quincy Adams
“The art of leadership is saying no, not yes. It is very easy to say yes.”
Tony Blair
SOURCE: Susan M. Heathfield