An idea (Lincoln’s Leadership)

I recently watched the Lincoln documentary on the History Channel, and it moved me deeply.

I’ve read about Lincoln’s leadership before, but this time, it felt more personal.

The documentary helped me see not just the president, but the man — a man shaped by pain, resilience, and quiet strength.

He was born into poverty, raised in a single-room log cabin.

He lost his mother at just nine years old.

He faced repeated failure in politics and business.

And yet, from those early struggles emerged one of the most thoughtful, steady, and morally courageous leaders our country has ever known.

When the documentary reached the moment of his assassination, I felt the grief of the nation in a new way.

The weight of that loss.

The sadness of losing not just a president, but a rare kind of leader.

Lincoln didn’t just hold the Union together.

He held his character together — through war, division, personal loss, and immense pressure.

Here are 5 timeless leadership lessons from Abraham Lincoln that continue to challenge and inspire me, and I hope they speak to you, too.

⸻

1. Strength in Stillness

“I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go.”

Lincoln’s humility wasn’t weakness.

It was wisdom. He led quietly — listening, reflecting, and praying — yet he stood firm when it counted.

Story: He regularly visited soldiers in hospitals, listened to citizen complaints, and made space for disagreement. He absorbed criticism without defensiveness and responded with calm, not ego.

Do This Today: Ask three colleagues: “What’s one thing you wish I listened to more closely?” Then stay silent. Don’t respond — just write it down.

Reflection: Where in my leadership do I need to show more humility, not to appear weak — but to grow stronger?

2. Fierce Conviction, Gentle Heart

“With malice toward none, with charity for all…”

Lincoln held fast to justice while extending compassion to his enemies.

He called the nation to accountability, without vindictiveness.

Story: After the Civil War, many pushed for vengeance. Lincoln insisted on restoration. His Second Inaugural Address remains one of the most gracious speeches ever given in victory.

Do This Today: In your next disagreement, start with: “Before we dive in, I want you to know I value you more than any position we hold.”

Reflection: Am I leading with both courage and compassion — or defaulting to one while neglecting the other?

3. Truth Over Comfort

“I don’t like that man. I must get to know him better.”

Lincoln didn’t surround himself with echo chambers.

He built a “Team of Rivals," people who had once opposed or criticized him, because truth mattered more than comfort.

Story: His cabinet included political opponents like Seward and Stanton. They didn’t flatter him; they sharpened him. And over time, they became fiercely loyal.

Do This Today: Schedule 15 minutes with someone who disagrees with you. Ask: “What’s one thing I need to hear that no one else will say?”

Reflection: Do I seek truth, or just agreement?

4. Steady in the Storm

“As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew.”

Lincoln didn’t panic under pressure.

He paused.

Reflected.

Waited for the right move, even when others demanded haste.

Story: Early in the war, his generals failed repeatedly. While others demanded swift action, Lincoln stayed patient. Eventually, he found Ulysses S. Grant, the leader who turned the tide.

Do This Today: Identify one decision you’re rushing. Block 30 minutes to step back and ask: “What are we missing?”

Reflection: Am I reacting to pressure, or responding with purpose?

5. Legacy Over Ego

“The struggle of today is not altogether for today — it is for a vast future also.”

Lincoln didn’t chase popularity.

He led for posterity.

He knew the hard, right path wasn’t always the most praised, but it was always worth it.

Story: Issuing the Emancipation Proclamation was controversial and politically risky. But Lincoln knew, “If slavery is not wrong, nothing is wrong.”

Do This Today: Write down your “why” — your deeper purpose in leading — and share it with your team this week.

Reflection: Am I leading for comfort, or for a cause that matters?

I hope these reflections on a great leader help you lead yourself and inspire others this week.

I'm honored to be on the journey with you.

– Cal

A question (or 5 this week 😉)

The Lincoln Leadership Mirror
Ask yourself:
1. Am I steady when others are shaken?
2. Do I invite truth from those who challenge me?
3. Do I lead with both empathy and conviction?
4. Is my leadership guided by purpose or popularity?
5. Am I shaping the future — or surviving the moment?

Any “no” answers may point to your greatest opportunity for growth.

A quote and resource

“He was one of those giant figures that can appear almost mythic. But what made him great was not mythology — it was his moral clarity and his unshakable character.”

—David Brooks

The Mission

I am on a mission to help thousands of leaders gain clarity, courage, community, and consistency in their lives. Thank you for joining me on this journey!

I'm rooting for you,

Cal

➡️ When you're ready, I can help you gain more joy and deep clarity with my Core Values Mini Course. It has helped over 150 leaders live a truly intentional life. Join here 🎯

Intentional Letter: Lincoln's Leadership