Secretary Powell’s 13 Rules
Their Powerful Meaning — Colin L. Powell (1937–2021)
1. It ain’t as bad as you think! It will look better in the morning.
Takeaway: be easy on yourself; no single day/event will define you.
2. Get mad then get over it.
Takeaway: fight for what you believe, but do not hold grudges; reliving the past will only hold you back.
3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
Takeaway: have strong opinions loosely held; readily admit when you are wrong and take corrective action.
4. It can be done.
Takeaway: believe in yourself.
5. Be careful what you choose. You may get it.
Takeaway: be keenly aware that even good decisions can have unintended (negative) consequences.
6. Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
Takeaway: sometimes, we must make decisions based on incomplete information; cultivate a sound decision-making process for such circumstances.
7. You can’t make someone else’s choices. You shouldn’t let someone else make yours.
Takeaway: leadership starts by leading yourself; leadership qualities are nurtured everytime you make hard decisions.
8. Check small things.
Takeaway: being detail-oriented signals to the world that your actions matter and that they are consequential.
9. Share credit.
Takeaway: acknowledge those that help you; success is rarely attained alone.
10. Remain calm. Be kind.
Takeaway: having self-control and showing mercy are absolute virtues.
11. Have a vision. Be demanding.
Takeaway: goal-setting requires discipline to see a goal through to completion.
12. Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
Takeaway: success is found by ignoring unconstructive criticism — both internal and external — and by confronting your fears.
13. Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.
Takeaway: an optimistic demeanor makes you happier, more successful, and healthier.
Colin Powell was the 65th United States Secretary of State (and first African-American Secretary of State), a four-star general, statesman, and diplomat.
~ Colin L. Powell (1937–2021)
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