Not a Popularity Contest
Ready — General Colin Powell held numerous high-level positions in his career: US Army General, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Secretary of State. During his years with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, he oversaw twenty-eight crises, among them the invasion of Panama (1989) and Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf War (1990-1991).
Set — These roles called for Powell to make unpopular decisions, but he knew leadership isn’t a popularity contest. What made Colin Powell a top leader? Here are a few of his thoughts.
Own your team’s wellbeing. “The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them.” If no one is confiding in you, it’s not a sign of smooth sailing—it’s a red flag.
Set the tone. Optimism is a force multiplier. Powell believed responsibility includes guarding your attitude. A hopeful heart can carry a team through impossible situations.
Make people mad. “Making people mad is part of being a leader.” Powell believed excellent leadership sometimes calls for ticking people off. Trying to get everyone to like you leads to mediocrity.
Decide rather than defer. Leadership involves risk; leadership demands action. Powell encouraged leaders to gather the facts, pray through them, then make a call. Check your instincts; trust your gut.
Take the blame; Share the credit. Great leaders don’t pass the buck. Powell believed when mistakes happen, leaders step up and take responsibility. When victories come, they spread the praise.
Stay humble. “Never let your ego get so close to your position that when your position goes, your ego goes with it.” Powell taught leaders to hold roles loosely and character tightly. Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about service.
Grow! — Powell left a legacy marked by an unwavering sense of responsibility. His insights aren’t just military strategy—they are life strategies. When it came to leadership, Powell was clear: leaders are responsible, even when it’s not popular.
Two Questions
Is your identity in your title or in your character?
Have you made anyone mad recently?