Secrets of Successful Leaders
The July 21 issue of Time Magazine featured an article discussing leadership secrets as expressed by Nelson Mandela on turning 90. This very succinct list serves as a reminder for anyone in a position of leadership, and applies equally well to leaders in a corporate setting as it does to those in public office:
#1: Courage is not the absence of fear -- it is inspiring others to move
beyond it.
#2: Lead from the front -- but don't leave your base behind.
#3: Lead from the back -- and let others believe they are in front.
#4: Know your enemy and learn about his favorite sport.
#5: Keep your friends close and your rivals even closer.
#6: Appearances matter -- and remember to smile.
#7: Nothing is black or white.
#8: Quitting is leading too.
No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, the more you ponder this man's observations, the more you will find them to be powerfully insightful. They should make a valuable checklist for managers and executives to monitor as they move up the corporate ladder. As for me, I've printed them out and put them up in clear sight of my desk.
Posted by Laurie Smith
I'm Louise Fletcher. As President of 

























