George Washington's Leadership Lessons

From James Rees, Executive Director of Mount Vernon, comes anenlightening guide to the leadership wisdom of America's first great leader. George Washington was more than just an inspiring battlefield commander; he was critical to the founding and success of the United States ofAmerica. His leadership, his vision, and his courage united a war-torncountry and set the United States on the path to greatness. Washington's historic contribution to this nation--his leadership and his character--are as relevant and valuable today as they have ever been. This book reveals Washington's character, his leadership, his vision, and most surprising of all, his business skills and acumen. Most people aren't awarethat Washington, while all of the above, was also a successful businessman and visionary entrepreneur. Exhibiting qualities sorely lacking in so many of our political and business leaders today, Washington remained steadfastly honest and ethical,following guiding principles that would benefit leaders around the world. George Washington's Leadership Lessons reveals a man of true character,worthy of emulation not just in the realm of politics and war, but in allleadership positions.

Preface: Footsteps to Follow xi Acknowledgments xvii Introduction: The Mark of a Leader xxi PART I Leadership Lessons 1 Leadership Lesson 1 A Leader Has Vision 3 Leadership Lesson 2 A Leader Is Honest 11 Leadership Lesson 3 A Leader Has Ambition 19 Leadership Lesson 4 A Leader Is Courageous 27 Leadership Lesson 5 A Leader Has Self-Control 33 Leadership Lesson 6 A Leader Takes Personal Responsibility 39 Leadership Lesson 7 A Leader Is Determined 47 Leadership Lesson 8 A Leader Has a Strong Work Ethic 53 Leadership Lesson 9 A Leader Uses Good Judgment 59 Leadership Lesson 10 A Leader Learns from Mistakes 69 Leadership Lesson 11 A Leader Is Humble 77 Leadership Lesson 12 A Leader Does the Research and Development 85 Leadership Lesson 13 A Leader Values Presentation 91 Leadership Lesson 14 A Leader Exceeds Expectations 99 Leadership Lesson 15 A Leader Has Heartfelt Faith 103 PART II The Rules of Civility 111 PART III George Washington, Entrepreneur 145 Notes 183 Selected Bibliography 195 Resources 199 About the Authors 201 Index 203