The First Thing to Master

The First Thing to Master The first thing a leader must learn to master is himself. Power means little when it is ruled by impulse. A decision made in the heat of anger can be carried by others who never chose to bear its consequences. It is easy to say, “I can live with my mistakes.” But leadership is not only about bearing the consequences of your own decisions. When others depend on you, your mistakes can become their burden. Your anger can become their suffering. Your recklessness can lead them somewhere they never deserved to go. That is why true strength begins with restraint. To remain calm when anger demands action. To think when instinct demands an answer. To choose wisely, not because you fear the consequences for yourself, but because others may have to live with what you decide. Before you lead anyone else, learn to lead yourself.