Surround yourself with people who take their work seriously, but not themselves, those who work hard and play hard.
Interpretation
Choose to associate with individuals who are dedicated and serious about their work yet maintain a sense of humor and balance in life.
This quote by Colin Powell emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with people who are committed and passionate about their work. However, it also underscores the value of joy and lightheartedness, suggesting that individuals who can balance seriousness with playfulness foster a positive and productive environment.
In practice
During a team meeting, I shared this quote to inspire collaboration and lightheartedness amongst the team.
Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier. I am talking about a gung-ho attitude that says 'we can change things here, we can achieve awesome goals, we can be the best. 'Spare me the grim litany of the 'realist;' give me the unrealistic aspirations of the optimist any day.
One of the fondest expressions around is that we can't be the world's policeman. But guess who gets called when suddenly someone needs a cop.
Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty, and persistence.
If you get the dirty end of the stick, sharpen it and turn it into a useful tool.
High-quality early-childhood programs and health coverage have expanded, and the number of mentoring relationships for at-risk youth has risen dramatically. That progress is encouraging, but it's not evenly distributed.
As I've thought about gay marriage, I don't see any reason not to say that [couples] should be able to get married.
The history of the world is full of men who rose to leadership, by sheer force of self-confidence, bravery and tenacity.
People look at me and see a calm, cool guy on the sidelines and I want them to know that my Christian faith affects my coaching and everything I do.
I consider it part of my responsibility as President of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear.
I had always enjoyed the title of Commander-in-Chief until I was informed ... that the only forces that cannot be transferred from Washington without my express permission are the members of the Marine Corps Band. Those are the only forces I have. I want it announced that we propose to hold the White House against all odds at least for some time to come.
A disciple is a disciple maker.
There is a new model of leadership in the world that rides on the premise that every single person in the organisation can be a leader. Titles are important for structure and order, but real power does not come from titles.
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