Being a leader is tough; being a leader who exemplifies leadership through character is even tougher.

However, those who are in leadership positions and who act with character seem to always:

1. Become and stay successful
2. Be well respected among their peers
3. Be presented with new opportunities for growth and success

Let’s explore below some real-life examples of what it means to act and lead with character:

Top Lessons Learned

At West Point I learned that the character of a leader is their most important attribute.  Character is defined as always putting the needs of the organization above your own.  As a Captain in the Army, I always ate after the soldiers in my command.  At P&G the leader should always take personal responsibility for results of their organization.  As a West Point plebe (freshman) I learned that I was only permitted four answers:  yes, no, no excuse, and I do not understand.  These four answers are about character; there is no opportunity for equivocation or excuse; there is no “but.”

At West Point I also learned to “choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong.”  This powerful line comes from the West Point Cadet Prayer.  Have you ever noticed how it is easier to do wrong things than right things?  A leader who lives by his or her word can be counted on to do the unpopular thing when it is right.  To always follow “the harder right,” a leader must truly believe that a life directed by moral guidelines promises deeper and richer satisfaction than a self-serving, self-absorbed life.  Living up to this ideal of character requires courage, determination, integrity, and self-discipline.  You must live by your word and actions, and know that is the most powerful demonstration of leadership.

Leadership Exercise

Where, in your personal and professional life, can you show stronger leadership through character?  Perhaps this can be achieved through the challenge of doing what is right during a situation where the “easy way out” is to do nothing.

Recommended Reading

The West Point Way of Leadership by Col.  Larry Donnithorne