President Lincoln has been a role model for President Obama. When asked what he has learned from studying the Civil War leader, Obama said that Lincoln has taught him to keep learning and not to be afraid of making a mistake.
Obama said that Lincoln constantly learned on the job. He was not arrogant and did not get defensive. Lincoln trained himself in various subjects to make the best decisions possible.
As leaders, we do not always have to be the experts. We must possess the capacity and willingness to learn from others. We need the strength and confidence to surround ourselves with others who can educate us and share ideas openly.
Being open and putting aside any arrogance or defensiveness can help in the learning and decision making process.
Lincoln’s lessons are good to remember. We can all apply them.