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How Good Leaders Become Great Leaders

Writer's picture: Dr. Patrick E. CrawfordDr. Patrick E. Crawford
Leadership Thoughts | Issue #199
 

"Great leadership is about striving—not for perfection but for progress. At its core, it’s about connection—connecting with others, your values, and an inspiring vision."



While reading Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Leadership in Turbulent Times, I found myself reflecting deeply on what makes a leader truly effective—not just in moments of crisis but in everyday leadership. By examining the lives and leadership of Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, and Lyndon B. Johnson, Goodwin highlights traits that transcend history, offering lessons for leaders like us today.


Each president faced extraordinary challenges with a unique blend of vision, empathy, resilience, and courage. Let’s consider the key leadership lessons they offer:



Abraham Lincoln: Vision and Empathy

Lincoln’s presidency was rooted in his unwavering vision for a united nation and his empathetic connection to others, even amidst the Civil War’s turmoil. His “Team of Rivals” approach, where he surrounded himself with those holding diverse perspectives, showcased the strength of inclusivity.


Modern Insight: Leaders can unite their teams around shared goals by leading with empathy and building trust. Lincoln reminds us that understanding the human side of leadership isn’t optional—it’s essential.



Theodore Roosevelt: Energy and Adaptability

Roosevelt’s relentless energy drove progressive reforms and conservation initiatives. His resilience, forged through personal tragedies, allowed him to embrace change with vigor and optimism.


Modern Insight: Leaders today must be adaptable and enthusiastic to navigate rapid changes and inspire their teams. Roosevelt’s boldness invites us to tackle challenges head-on, with the energy to make real progress.



Franklin D. Roosevelt: Communication and Optimism

Through optimism and transparent communication, FDR united a struggling nation during the Great Depression and World War II. His “Fireside Chats” exemplified how clear, compassionate messaging can create trust and connection.


Modern Insight: Honest communication instills confidence, making it an indispensable leadership tool. FDR shows us how openness and hope can inspire teams, even in uncertain times.



Lyndon B. Johnson: Decisiveness and Justice

Johnson’s bold leadership in advancing civil rights and his “Great Society” programs reflected a deep commitment to justice. His legacy, however, is marked by the complexities of his Vietnam War decisions.

Modern Insight: Leaders must balance decisive action with ethical reflection to ensure meaningful, sustainable impact. Johnson challenges us to ask: Are we balancing boldness with wisdom?



What These Lessons Mean for You

But here’s where it gets personal: How do these lessons apply to your leadership? Do you lead with empathy like Lincoln, or do you need to lean into understanding others more deeply? Are you adaptable like Roosevelt, or does embracing change still feel uncomfortable? Are you building trust through transparent communication like FDR, or is that an area to grow? Are you making bold, ethical decisions like Johnson, or is reflection missing from your leadership equation?


These leaders weren’t perfect, and neither are we. But their stories remind us that great leadership is about striving—not for perfection but for progress. At its core, leadership is about connection—connecting with others, your values, and an inspiring vision.


So today, I challenge you (and myself!) to pause and ask: What kind of leader am I? And what kind of leader do I want to be? Take these lessons, reflect on them, and carry them forward. You don’t suddenly achieve great leadership; you grow into it daily. Let’s keep growing together.


 

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