GEN William Livsey

"You can assign a man to a leadership position, but no one will ever really be a leader until his appointment is ratified in the hearts and minds of his soldiers. The first thing to do in operating as a leader is be honest with The problem is there is much rhetoric in this business. There is not enough honesty with ourselves about just who we are and whether we are really perceived as a leader by our subordinates. An honest–to–God, soul searching, self–evaluation is in order—and very difficult to do. I think this is the first vital step as one goes about the business of becoming a better leader. Your soldiers will gauge how well you are doing. You can fool bosses, and at times even peers, but you can’t fool your subordinates. Look into their eyes—you’ll really learn something."

- GEN William Livsey