Sterling Terrell

recovering economist

Patton’s Philosophy Of Command

Patton’s Philosophy Of Command

General Patton’s philosophy of leadership was simple.

Stay out of people’s way.

I have heard quotes similar to this before, but this nearly seems uncharacteristic of the caricature we have made of General Patton.

You know the man I am talking about.

The George C. Scott type, with his chest out in front of that American flag.

Seems like a guy like that would have arrogantly micromanaged everyone to death.

But what do I know?

Patton’s philosophy of command was: “Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.” PATTON: A GENIUS FOR WAR, CARLO D’ESTE, 1995

-Robert Greene, The 33 Strategies Of War

How Leadership Reflects Downward

How Leadership Reflects Downward

Leadership reflects downward in an organization in the same way that a horse reflects the disposition of the rider.

Think of this as it works with a CEO.

For any company will, over time, take on the characteristics of the CEO or President.

Ruthless leaders foster ruthless organizations, just as creative leaders cultivate creative organizations.

If leaders are in doubt, I think they should go with certainty.

Confidence on your part will breed confidence in others.

Any army is like a horse, in that it reflects the temper and the spirit of its rider. If there is an uneasiness and an uncertainty, it transmits itself through the reins, and the horse feels uneasy and uncertain. LONE STAR PREACHER, COLONEL JOHN W. THOMASON, JR., 1941

-Robert Greene, The 33 Strategies Of War

Sterling Terrell