Lee Kuan on Leadership

Leadership Lessons

1. Say It As It Is

One of Lee’s most obvious qualities is that he is a no nonsense person and he says things as it is. He is not afraid to be blunt about certain truths and he often gets on people’s nerves for doing so.

However, because of his approach, he manages to get things done.

Honesty with Tact
As a leader, the best thing you can do for your team is probably to say it as it is. It might hurt a few people, ruffle a few feathers, but to frame things as they are and allowing your team to face the truth is probably the best favour you can do for them.

Although some might be offended or feel uncomfortable, you will gain a lot of respect for doing so.

2. Plan Your Leadership Succession

Lee planned for the people that will take over him years before he actually stepped down as Prime Minister. He saw the importance of raising up the next generation of leaders to lead the nation.

Humility For the Good of Others
The saying goes, there is no success without a successor. As a leader, your organization must transcend you and you must be humble enough to acknowledge that.

If your organization is indispensable without you, then you have failed as a leader. You must strive to create an organization that can survive without you, and that is a sign of your success as a leader.

3. The Power Of Tenacity

Lee had gone through his toughest period when Malaysia chose to separate itself from Singapore.

However, he never gave up and he strengthened his resolve and still believed that he could change Singapore and make it into what it is today.

A leader must have this resolve to just press on no matter how difficult the circumstances. In fact, it is this quality that separates the good from the excellent. Everyone can lead well when circumstances are favourable, but it is the times of adversity that really distinct you as a leader.

Perseverance and Persistence Goes a Long Way
And when you choose to press on, you can really grow as a person, and make a real difference in whatever you’re doing.