GEN(R) Martin E. DempseyOvjeren akaunt

Dickens: “There are dark shadows on the earth, but its lights are stronger in the contrast.” We should admire most leaders who are unafraid of the light, leaders of courage, leaders of character. #Leadership

“We can be knowledgeable with other men’s knowledge, but we can’t be wise with other men’s wisdom” (David Brooks). Wisdom is the product of experience, judgment, and humility. #Leadership

“Well, what if there is no tomorrow? There wasn’t one today”(Groundhog Day). The right kind of leaders keep things fresh. They spread optimism and build hope. For everyone entrusted to their care. #Leadership

“Imagine for yourself a character, a model personality, whose example you determine to follow, in private as well as in public.”(Epictetus). Across the ages we have chosen who we will honor with the title “leader.” The most deserving treat it as a privilege. #Leadership

On this day in 1930, scotch tape first came to market. What “sticks” in our lives? What memories, what people, what values? By their example, the best leaders help us define ourselves. They bring us together. #Leadership

“There is no more fatal blunderer than he who consumes the greater part of his life getting his living”(Thoreau). We remember best the leaders who encourage us to be the best version of ourselves. Who help us “make it matter.” #Leadership

One of our founding fathers, Thomas Paine, born this day in 1737: “When we are planning for posterity, we ought to remember that virtue is not hereditary.” It is irresponsible to live just for ourselves and just for the moment. Good leaders are good teachers. #Leadership

“Circumstances do not make the man, they reveal him”(James Allen). The best leaders are at their best when circumstances are at their most difficult. And it’s rarely a surprise to those who know them. Good leadership is consistent leadership. #Leadership

“I was blessed with talent, but I worked as though I had none” (Kobe Bryant). Words that define a life well lived. Words that can inspire us to be more than we think possible. #Kobe #Leadership

Saint-Exupery: “The meaning of things lies not in the things themselves but in our attitude towards them.” In these information-saturated times we must beware of cynicism, fatigue, apathy, and indifference. Good leaders want us to be interested, inquisitive, engaged. #Leadership

“The voyage of discovery is not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes” (Marcel Proust). Leaders know they must learn or fail. They find their “new eyes” in those around them and take the time to listen. #Leadership

William A. Ward: “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” Same for leaders. We remember most—and emulate— those who inspire us. #Leadership

“People who know little are usually great talkers, while those who know much say little” (Jean-Jacques Rousseau). The best leaders know when to speak and when to listen. Their intellect, humility, and inclusiveness draws us to them. #Leadership

Shakespeare: “Modest doubt is the beacon of the wise.” Good leaders accumulate information. They reflect on their experience. They take counsel of their advisors. When all of that is done, when it’s time to lead, they rely ultimately on their own moral compass. #Leadership

Purdue scientists just invented the world’s fastest spinning object—a silica nanoparticle. At times in my past, I might have been accused of holding that title. But leaders should be calm, composed, and inclusive especially in the toughest situations. #Leadership

Martin Luther King, Jr: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is—what are you doing for others?” Particularly important question for those privileged to lead. #Leadership