A few years ago I saw an inspiring interview with Colin Powell.  It made me realise that there is a lot to be learned from leaders in spheres of life a little removed from my own.  As a result I read a great book in which the author summarises Powell’s insights into leadership, thereby forming what we might call axioms.

The Willow Creek Association have a post summarising the axioms as follows:

1.  It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
2. Get mad, then get over it.
3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
4. It can be done.
5. Be careful what you choose.
6. Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
7. You can’t make someone else’s choices.
8. Check small things.
9. Share credit.
10. Remain calm. Be kind.
11. Have a vision.
12. Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
13. Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier

If you want to read more, here is the book: