Leadership Lessons - Nelson Mandela

Here are is a list of 8 leadership points from Nelson Mandela that were originally published in Time magazine -

1. Courage is not the absence of fear - it's inspiring others to move beyond it. Even if you are afraid, pretend not to be and therefore inspire others.


2. Lead from the front but don't leave your base behind. Take the long view on issues.


3. Lead from the back - and let others think they are in front. Let others speak their minds first, listen then summarise - then speak your mind. Take a considered approach to situations.


4. Know your enemy - and learn about his favorite sport. Speak your opponents language.


5. Keep your friends close - and your rivals even closer. Always be aware of what your rivals are up to. Use your rivals to your benefit and betterment. Choose to trust people.


6. Appearances matter - and remember to smile. The way you dress tells a story and you choose what that story will be. Also engage with people using the symbols and the customary methods to engage with them.


7. Nothing is black and white. "To look for simple explanations is the human way but it doesn't correspond to reality.


8. Quitting is leading too. Learn how to walk away from a failed idea. Admitting you are wrong takes courage and humility.

Check out the original article over at Time.com.