Category Archives: Characteristics

Characteristic #26: Extraordinary Persistence

By | October 24, 2013

[Updated December 28, 2013] Great leaders have extraordinary persistence.  Yes, possession of large doses of persistence is a prerequisite for great senior executive leaders. The dictionary defines persistence as, “Firm or obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.”  In other words, do not expect persistence to be easy.  In fact, it’s hard. For… Read More »

Characteristic #24: Recognizing Bias

By | October 20, 2013

[October 20, 2013]  Every decision that leaders make involves some level of bias.  The problem is not that there is bias, a natural function, but that some biases in decision-making and employee affairs can lead to an incorrect judgment, unfounded conclusions, and uncertainty. Senior leaders are interested in both mission accomplishment and taking care of their employees.  Therefore,… Read More »

Characteristic #23: Humility

By | October 19, 2013

[October 19, 2013]  Humility is defined several ways.  However, the meanings used today lead to confusion, especially when employed to describe a leader.  First, it can mean lack of confidence or timidity.  Or second, it can mean to be humble, lacking pretence, not believing you are superior to others. In some cultures, the language separates the meanings but… Read More »

Characteristic #22: Dealing with Unknown Unknowns

By | October 17, 2013

[October 17, 2013]  Unpredictable major events, good or bad, that have a major effect on people, organizations, or society are often justified as destiny after their occurrence.  While we cannot predict such events, we can certainly put into place mechanisms that prepare us better to take advantage of them.  Taleb called these events “Black Swans.”1 The Honorable Donald… Read More »