This week we received the sad news that General Colin Powell died at age 84. He was a world-renowned statesman, diplomat, Secretary of State, and four-star General.
The son of Jamaican Immigrants, he was born in Harlem, New York in 1937. He was raised in the South in tough times, General Powell reached his success through hard work, strong ethics, and love of his country. In 1995 he wrote his book, “My American Journey”. Contained in this book were his 13 “Rules for living”. Of all the attachments I send to my clients and friends, these rules are at the “top of the Hit Parade”. Here they are:
It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
Get mad, then get over it.
Avoid having your ego so close to your position that, when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
It can be done!
Be careful what you choose. You may get it.
Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
You can’t make someone else’s choices.
Check small things.
Share credit.
Remain calm. Be kind.
Have a vision. Be demanding.
Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.
I have found these rules to be helpful when I am dealing with situations, problems, crises, and making decisions. They may do the same for you!
