Colin Powell's Rules

It ain’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.

Get mad, then get over it

Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position fails, your ego goes with it.

It can be done!!

Be careful what you choose. You may get it.

Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.

You can’t make someone else’s choices. You shouldn’t let someone else make yours.

Check small things.

Share credit.

Remain calm. Be kind.

Have a vision. Be demanding.

Don’t take counsel of your fears or naysayers.

Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.



These are from Colin Powell’s biography “My American Journey.” General Powell’s journey has certainly taken him through historical times. Colin is one of my heroes not only for his military service but for his demeanor and how his service to our nation has been a example to me. Not only has he lived the "American Dream" in several capacities but has done each of them with distinction.

Persico, Joseph E. My American Journey
Ballantine Books, New York, NY. 1995