Colin Powell

War should be the politics of last resort. And when we go to war, we should have a purpose that our people understand and support.

I think whether you're having setbacks or not, the role of a leader is to always display a winning attitude.

Surround yourself with people who take their work seriously, but not themselves, those who work hard and play hard.

Time is passing, ... We have to look at the reality of the situation and ... redouble our efforts and get on with it.

What could be more important than equipping the next generation with the character and competence they need to become successful

I want to see policies that encourage every American to vote, not make it more difficult to vote.

Always be looking for that which you do well and that which you love doing, and when you find those two things together — man, you got it.

Don't be buffaloed by experts and elites. Experts often possess more data than judgment. Elites can become so inbred that they produce hemophiliacs who bleed to death as soon as they are nicked by the real world.

Leadership is all about people … and getting the most out of people.

As a leader you set the tone for your entire team. Communicate your vision.

Trust is the essence of Leadership.

My responsibility, our responsibility as lucky Americans, is to try to give back to this country as much as it has given us, as we continue our American journey together.

I want to scare the hell out of the rest of the world.

Don't take counsel of your fears or naysayers.

Trying to get everyone to like you is a sign of mediocrity.

The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them.