HBR IdeaCast Real Leaders: Abraham Lincoln and the Power of Emotional Discipline
Mar 19, 2020
Nancy Koehn, a Harvard Business School professor and historian specializing in Abraham Lincoln, sheds light on the transformative leadership of the iconic president during the Civil War. The conversation highlights Lincoln's astonishing emotional discipline, including his decision to refrain from sending a scathing letter to a general. Koehn discusses Lincoln's resilience shaped by personal struggles and his evolution on issues like slavery, especially post-Gettysburg. The episode captures lessons on emotional self-control, communication, and the complexities of leadership during crisis.
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Lincoln's Humor
- Lincoln used humor, even bawdy jokes, to connect with people.
- During the Lincoln-Douglas debates, he quipped about going through college after climbing through a window to the stage.
Early Hardships and Resilience
- Lincoln's early hardships, like his mother's death, fostered resilience.
- He learned to persevere through difficult times and avoid victimhood.
Resilience Through Setbacks
- Despite many political losses, Lincoln showed resilience by reflecting on failures and focusing on self-improvement.
- His self-awareness and drive helped him persevere through setbacks.