I was saddened to hear about the recent death of a great military leader, General H. Schwarzkopf. Years ago, I was privileged to not only hear Stormin’ Norman deliver a speech, but to personally meet the man regarded as one of the greatest leaders of our time. Political views aside, Schwarzkopf was a leader that people felt comfortable serving and following.

General Schwarzkopf led the coalition forces to victory while ejecting the Iraqi Army from Kuwait and restoring the rightful government. His leadership not only inspired the troops, but also inspired the nation during this time of crisis.

Some of my favorite Schwarzkopf leadership quotes include:

• “The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.”
• “It doesn’t take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.”
• “The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war.”
• “You learn far more from negative leadership than from positive leadership. Because you learn how not to do it. And, therefore, you learn how to do it.”
• “Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.”
• “Any soldier worth his salt should be anti-war. And still there are things worth fighting for.”
• “You can’t help someone get up a hill without getting closer to the top yourself.”
• “When placed in command—take charge.”
• “True courage is being afraid, and going ahead and doing your job anyhow. That’s what courage is.”

Stormin’ Norman made his mark in the military arena, but the principles and values by which he operated apply to leaders of all levels. We as business leaders can learn much from his legacy. My condolences to his family and friends during this time.

–Sheri Staak