Years ago, Brian Newman introduced me to Bobby Clinton's concept of historical mentors. A historical mentor is someone from the past who influences you through their writings and your reflections on their writings. Over the years I have picked a number of different people to use as historical mentors.
As I was thinking about picking a historical mentor for 2008, I decided not to focus on any one person, but to read quite a few biographies. That was one reason why I read Paul Johnson's - HEROES. I wanted to get some ideas for historical mentors for this year.
One name came to mind quickly. Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt. I recently read a very intriguing story about his approach to learning and personal development. That hooked me.
I recently read two books about Roosevelt. One was a biography which was interesting. Lion in the White House: A Life of Theodore Roosevelt by Aida Donald.
But the other one was great. It fits into the genre of books that I call leadership biographies. That means, the book looks at issues of leadership but does so through the lens of historical, biographical material about the individual. So, get a copy of Theodore Roosevelt on leadership: Executive Lessons From the Bully Pulpit, by James Strock.
Here are five reasons why:
- You'll learn about the importance of highly intentional life long learning and what it can do for you.
- You'll learn about how a determination to do the right thing (and to succeed in doing the right thing) in spite of virtually impossible circumstances, will sustain your leadership.
- You'll learn about and have a great illustration of the importance of becoming a great communicator.
- You'll learn about a leader who was not only a great leader, but a great family man.
- You'll come away with about 100 great quotes by Roosevelt.
Brian Rice
