The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. Let us move forward with strong and active faith.

Franklin Roosevelt

Franklin Roosevelt also popularly called as FDR, was elected as the President of the United States of America and led for 13 years (for more than two terms). He was born to a prominent Dutch family in New York in 1882 and graduated from Harvard University and Columbia University Law School. He married Eleanor Roosevelt and had six children. In 1921, Franklin contracted with Polio virus which prevented him from continuing his political career as he was paralyzed, waist down. In 1928 he made a huge turn in his life as he refused to accept his fate any longer. He attempted to recover from his sickness and then ran for Governor of New York in 1928 and served from 1929 to 1932. In November, 1932 he was elected the 32nd US President. He successfully led the country through the Great Depression and World War II. He died in 1945 of Cerebral Hemorrhage.

Yalta Summit 1945 with Churchill Roosevelt Stalin
Churchill, FDR, and Stalin at 1945 Yalta Summit, two months before Roosevelt’s death – Wikipedia.org

Franklin Delano Roosevelt or FDR had immense accomplishments that we can all learn from but one poignant and inspiring success was when he showed his people of his unyielding optimism by turning his back on his disability to serve them. This was symbolic to the Americans at that moment as they were at the pit of Great Depression. When most of us would just accept our fate and wait for our demise, this great man chose to serve, stand literally on his feet to give speeches, give hope and renew national spirit.

In our leadership life, we often find ourselves feeling either depressed or withdrawn being through myriads of frustrations and defeats. It is so convenient to let go, wait for another group of people to lead and have a fresh start. However, the test of greatness in leadership is how we could pick ourselves up each morning, rally our troops in hope and optimism, painfully face the issues head on and work with the team in finding solutions. If we show our people that we are down, they too will feel the same and it’s going to impact productivity. Beyond your physical strength, your people will want to see your confidence in leading them to the path of learning and victory. You can start by making sure you greet them with a smile as you walk in.

Attributes: Optimism, Perseverance, Humility

References:
Wikipedia.org
Biography.com