David Brooks on Leadership

David Brooks' list shows that the most effective leaders act to bridge the gaps between opposing sides, taking multiple views into consideration and deciding on the best course of action. This requires both the humility to listen to others—especially those who disagree with you—and the wisdom to do what is right.

What might you add to Brooks' list? What qualities have you seen in the leaders you admire?

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Transcript

Columnist David Brooks listed the qualities of a good president.

1) Leaders live surrounded by both yes-men and critics. They must constantly choose and improvise. So even more than experience, a good leader needs character and self-knowledge.

2) Leaders are internally driven. Their outlooks were grounded before they took on personal ambitions.

3) They want to solve problems, not take sides. Their view of good and bad runs not between parties—but down the center of every person.

This is Howard Butt, Jr., of Laity Lodge. Good leaders can step outside their own egos to understand the opposition. Brooks’ list is a checklist for us all . . . in the high calling of our daily work.

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. (Phil. 1:27-28)