Sustainability makes good business sense, and we're all on the same team at the end of the day. That's the truth about the human condition.
Paul PolmanRead
Leadership is not a contest of likeability. Leadership often boils down to making the tougher choices. You are not in a popularity contest.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Leadership requires making difficult decisions rather than seeking popularity.
This quote by Paul Polman emphasizes that effective leadership is not about being liked or popular among followers, but about the ability to make tough decisions that may not always be well-received. True leaders sometimes have to prioritize the greater good over personal approval and to embrace difficult choices, acknowledging that such decisions are essential for the progress and success of their teams or organizations.
Themes
LeadershipDecisionsChoicesToughnessPopularity
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership seminar, this quote can be used to emphasize the importance of integrity in decision-making.
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I discovered a long time ago that if I focus on doing the right thing for the long term to improve the lives of consumers and customers all over the world, the business results will come.
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The young give us hope because young people are certain their best days still lie ahead - which explains why they're absolutely convinced they can change the world for the better.
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