Throughout history, there are numerous examples of leadership. Take for example leading first ladies, wives of American presidents. History captures their poise, contributions, and also their support for presidential figures.
But, looking closer at their contributions as leading ladies helps to shed light on their own path as leaders. With or without their men to support them, they have been examples of solid leaders. Listening to their words, inspirational messages, and advocacy, there is a lot to learn about their leading roles. Here are a few brief examples of their wisdom.
“The future belongs to those who believe in their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
“A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.” – Rosalynn Carter
“One of the lessons in life I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract your goals.” – Michelle Obama
“Our lives are a mixture of different roles. Most of us are doing the best we can to find whatever the right balance is. For me, that balance is family, work, and service.” – Hilary Rodham Clinton
“I will be a wife and mother first, then First Lady.” – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
What inspiration can be gleaned from our first ladies? Obviously, there is so much more than can be realized beyond just from a few quotes.
Dawn McCoy
author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success
