General Colin Powell’s Rules:
It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
Get mad, then get over it.
Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
It can be done!
Be careful what you choose. You may get it.
Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
You can’t make someone else’s choices. You shouldn’t let someone else make yours.
Check small things.
Share credit.
Remain calm. Be kind.
Have a vision. Be demanding.
Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.
“When things go wrong in your command, start wading for the reason in increasing larger concentric circles around your own desk.”
General Bruce D. Clark
“I must study politics and war, that my sons may have the liberty to study mathematics and philosophy…in order to give their children the right to study painting, poetry, and music.”
John Adams
‘What are the values of a Good Soldier?’…’Freedom and courage. Freedom is what makes us fight, and courage is what keeps us from running away.’ Those who command Soldiers in combat understand both why men fight and why they do not run away. The wellsprings of the warrior spirit come not only from the aggressive, animalistic depths of a man’s nature, but also from his most philosophical and idealistic yearnings. Courage, like bravery, has been the first requirement of the Soldier since the most primitive days. Good commanders talk easily and thoughtfully on these matters.
The Challenge of Command by Roger Nye
