Retired Four Star General and former Secretary of State, Colin Powell passed away. He was known for many things, including his belief that kindness isn’t incompatible with leadership. Or that it shows weakness, In fact, as you can see below, from his quote that I chose to start Chapter 1 of my new book, The Kind Leader, with Colin Powell believed that kindness in leadership shows confidence, a strength, not a weakness. Another great quote (from Colin Powell’s book It Worked for Me) referenced in The Kind Leader is: “If you have developed a reputation for kindness and consideration, then even the most unpleasant decisions will go down easier because everyone will understand why you are doing what you are doing. They will realize that your decision must be necessary, and it is not arbitrary or without empathy.” Having the strength to lead with kindness reduces and eliminates fear, and creates, instead, trust. Trust that leaders have followers best interests at heart, whether on the battlefield, at work, at home, in communities, countries and the world. Today, to honor Colin Powell’s memory, please do an act of kindness. It won’t show weakness, it will show strength and confidence.
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