Unlocking Lincoln's Leadership Secrets: 10 Lessons in Courage and Determination

How the greatest president transformed adversity into achievement

The Art of Becoming is a newsletter about finding value in adversity and embracing discomfort. Each week, I share how I find fulfillment and a little joy. In the process, we become more resilient, wiser, maybe a little wealthier, and hopefully, better people.

I hope you join me.

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My favorite president, and that of many historians, is Abraham Lincoln. I read about him in school and how he was the president who saved the country and freed the enslaved people. Who couldn’t love a man like that? And then I learned that half the country hated him. For some reason, that made me like him more.

I saw Lincoln as a scrapper who fought against racism, not with his fists, but with his intellect and compassion. He was my first introduction to leadership. Not a bad way to start.

Abraham Lincoln's journey to the presidency was marked by numerous setbacks and personal tragedies. He faced business failures, multiple electoral defeats, the loss of three children, and a nervous breakdown. Despite these challenges, Lincoln's unwavering persistence led him to become the 16th President of the United States, where he preserved the Union and abolished slavery.

On this Presidents' Day, let's draw inspiration from Lincoln's resilience. Here are ten of his powerful quotes to guide you through adversity and lead with purpose.

Let’s get to it.

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Photo by Library of Congress on Unsplash

"I am a slow walker, but I never walk back."

Progress may be gradual, but it's essential to keep moving forward without retreat.

"The best way to predict your future is to create it."

Take control of your destiny by actively shaping your path.

"I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go."

Recognize the importance of seeking guidance and support during challenging times.

"I do not think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday."

Commit to continuous learning and personal growth.

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing."

Determination and resolve are key drivers of success.

"You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today."

Address challenges promptly to prevent future complications.

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power."

True character is revealed in how one handles authority and power.

"My great concern is not whether you have failed, but whether you are content with your failure."

Use failures as lessons and remain motivated to persevere.

"I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true."

Uphold your integrity and stay true to your values, regardless of the outcome.

"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."

Happiness is a choice influenced by one's perspective and attitude.

Bonus Quote:

"The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time."

During the first two and half years of the American Civil War, the Union lost most of its battles against the South. Until Ulysses S. Grant took over, Lincoln’s generals failed to engage the enemy.

It would have been easy to blame others for their losses or quit the fight. But Abraham Lincoln believed in America. He could not and would not give up. He stayed focused on the present because he had to preserve the country.

Lincoln wanted to create a better tomorrow and a more perfect Union. Tough times are temporary. Focus on the present and take each day as an opportunity to progress.

Do the work you must do today to create a better tomorrow, just like Lincoln. And don’t be afraid of the sacrifices you will have to make. He said sacrifices are the last full measure of devotion.

Lincoln's life exemplifies that resilience and determination can transform adversity into achievement.

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Thanks for reading. Lincoln always believed the race to ambition was a failure. He succeeded when he stopped caring about his ambition and put the country first.

Love to you and yours,

Michael