I teach them correct principles

John Taylor, the third President of the Church, reported: “Some years ago, in Nauvoo, a gentleman in my hearing, a member of the Legislature, asked Joseph Smith how it was that he was enabled to govern so many people, and to preserve such perfect order; remarking at the same time that it was impossible for them to do it anywhere else. Mr. Smith remarked that it was very easy to do that. ‘How?’ responded the gentleman; ‘to us it is very difficult.’ Mr. Smith replied, ‘I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves.’”

John Taylor, “The Organization of the Church,” Millennial Star, Nov. 15, 1851, p. 339. As quoted in Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 2007. Chapter 24: Leading in the Lord’s Way. 

harder to bear than criticism

Even harder to bear than criticism, oftentimes, is no word from our leader on the work to which we have been assigned. Little comments or notes, which are sincere and specific, are great boosters along the way.

Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 2014. Chapter 19: Leadership. 371.

a good leader expects loyalty

A good leader expects loyalty. He in turn gives his loyalty. He backs up those to whom he has given a job. The loyalty extends to matters beyond the call of duty. He is loyal when honors come to those with whom he serves. He takes pride in their successes. He does not overrule unless he first confers with him whose decision he overrules. He does not embarrass an associate before others. He is frank and open with him.

Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 2014. Chapter 19: Leadership. 371.

the humble spirit

One of the marks of great leadership always has been and ever will be the humble spirit.

Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 2014. Chapter 19: Leadership. 371.

the enemy of the good

There is no point … in letting the best be the enemy of the good. 

The Economist, March 10th, 2001, p.20. 

Taken from Le mieux est l'ennemi du bien. Voltaire, Dictionnaire Philosophique (The Best Is The Enemy Of The Good).