From MasterClass
Doris Kearns Goodwin studies and profiles presidents - Lincoln, the Roosevelts, Lyndon Johnson.
No great leader works alone. They rely on talented teams to get things done. They add value to subordinates and value their input. Strong leaders feel unafraid by talent around them. Openness and dissection of ideas from our peers strengthens not diminishes.
Leaders leverage emotional IQ to collaborate and persist while facing massive obstacles. Lincoln led his Team of Rivals to navigate the Civil War and to preserve the Union. Franklin Delano Roosevelt honed his skills while rehabilitating from polio at Warm Springs. Then, he blended a cabinet of Democrats and Republicans to emerge from the Great Depression. Johnson forged a bipartisan coalition to expand civil rights, fair housing, and voting rights.
At their best, contagion of good works makes groups better. Gregg Popovich blended FIBA coaching star Etorre Messina, Becky Hammon, and others during two decades of NBA success. But the connection among Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili drove the Spurs engine.
Generosity of spirit elevates teams, both in sharing credit and giving forgiveness. Dean Smith made it a point to recognize reserves in the media who contributed to a win.
Build a culture of respect for divergent opinion. George C. Marshall was a low ranking general who disagreed with FDR. But the President saw his logistical brilliance and promoted him. Some call Marshall the "organizer of victory" during World War II. Marshall put victory ahead of personal rise, favoring Dwight Eisenhower to become European Theater commander.
Summary:
- No great leader works alone.
- Leaders leverage emotional IQ.
- Good work is contagious.
- Generosity of spirit elevates teams.
- Build a culture of respect.
Lagniappe:
"Eyes up."
Eyes move defenders.
Leverage advantage.
On time and on target.
