The "IF 16"
Leadership Attributes
Number 9: Strategic Boldness – The Reward of Risking It All
"If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss..."
Boldness, the ability to see and seize an opportunity, is a fundamental leadership trait. Thomas Jefferson saw a unique opportunity to strengthen America and double its size by negotiating with France for the Louisiana Purchase. Unfortunately, he lacked both the authority to negotiate the deal and the funds to make the purchase. In spite of the risks, Jefferson seized the opportunity, which proved to be one of the best presidential decisions ever made.
Strategic boldness requires:
1. Looking for and seeing the opportunities that exist
2. Assessing the risks and rewards that opportunities present
3. Accepting responsibility for actions
4. Delegating authority so others may act.
