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All Donald Rumsfeld Quotes
Don't be a bottleneck. If a matter is not a decision for the President or you, delegate it. Force responsibility down and out. Find problem areas, add structure and delegate. The pressure is to do the reverse. Resist it.
Donald Rumsfeld
67% of people like this quote
In our system leadership is by consent, not command. To lead a President must persuade. Personal contacts and experiences help shape his thinking. They can be critical to his persuasiveness and thus to his leadership.
Donald Rumsfeld
62% of people like this quote
Enjoy your time in public service. It may well be one of the most interesting and challenging times of your life.
Donald Rumsfeld
61% of people like this quote
Presidential leadership needn't always cost money. Look for low- and no-cost options. They can be surprisingly effective.
Donald Rumsfeld
60% of people like this quote
Know that the amount of criticism you receive may correlate somewhat to the amount of publicity you receive.
Donald Rumsfeld
58% of people like this quote
Many people around the President have sizeable egos before entering government, some with good reason. Their new positions will do little to moderate their egos.
Donald Rumsfeld
58% of people like this quote
Learn to say "I don't know." If used when appropriate, it will be often.
Donald Rumsfeld
56% of people like this quote
Leave the President's family business to him. You will have plenty to do without trying to manage the First Family. They are likely to do fine without your help.
Donald Rumsfeld
56% of people like this quote
I can't tell you if the use of force in Iraq today will last five days, five weeks or five months, but it won't last any longer than that.
Donald Rumsfeld
56% of people like this quote
Be yourself. Follow your instincts. Success depends, at least in part, on the ability to "carry it off."
Donald Rumsfeld
56% of people like this quote
It is easier to get into something than to get out of it.
Donald Rumsfeld
55% of people like this quote
Don't speak ill of your predecessors or successors. You didn't walk in their shoes.
Donald Rumsfeld
55% of people like this quote
If you foul up, tell the President and correct it fast. Delay only compounds mistakes.
Donald Rumsfeld
55% of people like this quote
Don't necessarily avoid sharp edges. Occasionally they are necessary to leadership.
Donald Rumsfeld
55% of people like this quote
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