Leadership Principles Don’t Change

As we all strive to be better leaders, we often seek fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and groundbreaking strategies to sharpen our skills. However, often much of what we call "new" in leadership development is, in fact, deeply rooted in principles that have proven to be effective in the past, even for centuries.

In my ADEPT Leadership® work, I often reference Napoleon Hill who wrote his seminal work “Think and Grow Rich” over a century ago. His research into the attributes of the most effective leaders of his era provided insights into the power of purpose, persistence, focus and self-management.  Although the world has changed significantly, these leadership ideas resonate today as much as they did in the early 1900s. But even then, what Hill articulated were not new concepts; rather, they were universal truths about human behavior and motivation that have stood the test of time.

This idea was further reinforced during my recent visit to Valley Forge National Historical Park . As I was reading the many plaques and quotes, one hit me like slap on the forehead. It was a quote from Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, a Prussian military officer, who played a critical role in training and transforming the Continental Army during the harsh winter of 1777-1778.  

Von Steuben found himself explaining the difference between the American soldiers he was trying to train, and the others he had worked with in his long career. He said: "The genius of this nation is not in the least to be compared with that of the Prussians, Austrians, or French. You say to your soldier, 'Do this,' and he doeth it; but (in America) I am obliged to say, 'This is the reason why you ought to do that,' and then he does it."

Almost 250 years ago, Von Stueben was saying that Americans wouldn’t act until they knew “why” they were doing something. While today Simon Sinek has undoubtedly popularized the concept of "Start with Why", he is not the first to recognize its importance. The need to understand the underlying reasons for our work, and to convey these reasons clearly and compellingly, is an intrinsic human need that has guided leaders for centuries.

Von Steuben’s experience at Valley Forge shows us that even in the most trying circumstances, people look for purpose in their efforts. Sinek’s contributions serve as a modern reminder of this timeless truth, reinforcing what Von Steuben knew well over two centuries ago.

So, as you consider your own leadership journey, I invite you to reflect on the enduring principles that have always shaped great leaders. Whether it's the lessons from Napoleon Hill or the wisdom from a revolutionary war general, remember that the essence of leadership hasn't changed. It's about connecting with people on a fundamental level, understanding their needs, and inspiring them with a clear and compelling purpose.

At its core, leadership development isn't about chasing and understanding the newest trend; it's about applying age-old principles in relevant ways. At ADEPT, we help people leverage these timeless leadership concepts to improve the habits that allow them to navigate the complexities of today’s workplace.

 – Paul