In the midst of our current times of uncertainty – in our political arena, in our economy, around the world and in our environment, circumstances can appear overwhelming. During such times it is helpful to look back at those who provided steadfast leadership during similar times, and to then be guided by the wisdom they still share with us today.

One such man was Teddy Roosevelt, a larger-than-life personality. Adventuresome, brave, opinionated and full of energy he left a legacy that impacted our country in deep and lasting ways. This is an appropriate moment to look at some of Teddy’s lessons, and apply them to our lives and work environment today.


1. It is every American’s responsibility to be active in our civic life.

Teddy Roosevelt believed that our American democracy and ideals cannot be preserved unless the general population participates in the practical work of our democracy.

All of us face similar circumstances and have a similar role to play today. That role may be active involvement in our current presidential campaign, regardless of your political preferences. It may be involvement in your community, your school, faith-based programs or helping your own business contribute to your community. Regardless, our collective active involvement is essential if we are to address the problems we face and build an even stronger world for those who follow us.

2. Politics – and business - should be animated by large, important ideas.

Teddy Roosevelt believed that debates over trivial issues or negative campaigning serve no one. Our political leaders must speak about the larger issues and challenges that face our society and our world.

Similarly, leaders in corporate America must speak about the large, important ideas in their own organizations. A powerful vision, core values and driving strategies are the only tools we have to rise above our day-to-day problems and create new realities.

3. The United States while not flawless, is a profound force for good in the world.

Teddy Roosevelt led a reluctant nation into the global arena. Today, there are those who would once again withdraw from our broader global responsibility. But the world is completely interconnected – through commerce, transportation, communication and environmental interdependence. It is both unrealistic and unwise to even consider a withdrawal from our active engagement and efforts to further the betterment of the world. That interdependence crosses all political lines – whether the issue is global warming, starving children anywhere in the world, natural disasters, or man’s inhumanity to man – we all have a collective responsibility to apply the core values established by our founding fathers to help make the world a better place.

Similarly, in our work lives we have a responsibility to reach out to our customers, our employees, our stakeholders, and the communities in which we live and work to create a better world.

4. Leadership matters.

Roosevelt believed in “immediate and rigorous executive action” in times of crisis. Whether others agreed with him or not, they knew where he stood. And, like all great leaders, he inspired those he led, turning his convictions into theirs.

These words could not be spoken more clearly in any business book today. From Peter Drucker to today’s management gurus, clarity of vision and purpose, communication, and inspirational leadership (achieved by being a living example of your words) is the hallmark of leadership.

5. A spirited clash of ideas is not only inevitable, it is helpful.

Teddy Roosevelt was a “rough and tumble” type of president. He loved debate, was willing to listen to others, and equally willing to press his own views with great punctuation. He made ardent friends and bitter enemies, as does any great leader. Yet he always believes that the honest clash of ideas allows the best thoughts to rise to the top.

In our own work life, it is more important that we understand “what’s right” rather than “who’s right.” That determination can only come through honest and rigorous debate. As leaders we must allow and encourage that debate – as long as it is delivered with respect to each other – and do not diminish or smooth over differences. A healthy exchange of differences – as long as both sides listen and remain open and flexible to choose the best answer – generates ideas and understanding that cannot be reached in any other manner.

6. There can be great joy in politics – and work.

Roosevelt said: “Aggressive fighting for the right is the noblest sport the world affords.” He was forthright and relished the challenge of politics. He believed that a good fight was worth the effort if your goals and intentions were of the highest order.

The same may be said for our competitive work environment. There is no greater victory than that of defeating a worthy adversary through honest efforts on a level playing field. We should not shrink from the challenges we face as long as we believe our cause is right, our products and services worthy, and our desire is to best serve our clients and customers.

7. Character matters.

Roosevelt was a sickly child who turned himself into a powerful, hardy young man through extraordinary self-will. He consciously chose the “strenuous life” over comfort and ease and overcame his human fears to evolve as a man of great courage. He strived with all his efforts to conserve, strengthen, direct and ennoble our great nation, which is why he holds such a special place in the American imagination.

Character is the essence of leadership. People may listen to us because of what we say. But they will choose to follow us (or not) because of who we are. In its essence, leadership is about human character – translated into a clear and compelling vision and a path forward to achieve that vision. But leadership can only be sustained by the essential character that is manifested through a sense of purpose grounded in values that seek to contribute to the greater good.