2018: Book #1
It seems only fitting that I finish book #1 of the New Year on January 1.
Yes, my goal this year is 52 books—1 per week on average.
I finished, “Lincoln” by David Herbert Donald. It’s considered the authoritative account.
Spectacular read…I’m fascinated by Lincoln as a leader.
Failure. Success. Broken. Hopeful.
How did the book help me as a leader?
Lincoln would check out books on military strategy from the library so he could speak with education to his generals and military advisers. He fumbled on building an effective military team. He craved honest feedback and surrounded himself with people who weren’t afraid to speak truth to power. Through these efforts and trials he learned and grew as a leader.
He wasn’t perfect. His motives weren’t always pure, but he accomplished an amazing amount of good. America is better because Lincoln was President. Lincoln didn’t give up. Even though he doubted personally, he always showed hope publicly.
“Always…always…always be the representative of hope. The goal of the mission should always be seen as attainable.”
That teaches me to keep learning. It gives me hope that I can change and grow as a leader. It reminds me that candor is critical. Hearing other viewpoints and opinions helps me see all sides of an issue. I try to do what’s right, but I need to remember that even though I’m flawed, I can still do much good. Always…always…always be the representative of hope. The goal of the mission should always be seen as attainable. As a leader, don’t give a voice to your doubts.
Demanding total surrender of the South with the goal of restoring the Union and freeing the slaves makes him worthy of every monument.
And with that…book #1 is complete. 51 more to go.
Next…“The Captain Class: The Hidden Force That Creates the World’s Greatest Teams” by Sam Walker.
Remember, all leaders are readers.
If you want to be a better leader…be a reader.
#52in2018
