Leadership Lessons From An Evergreen Favourite - 'Answering the Critic'

Hi everyone. Today, I want to dive into an incredible poem called "Answering the Critic" and explore the powerful leadership lessons it holds for us. In a follow up Blog, I explore using the poem as an opportunity to encourage you to develop your expressive communication capabilities. 

You know, sometimes we find the most valuable leadership guidance in left of field places, like great literature. This poem, taken from President Theodore Roosevelt's speech "Citizenship in a Republic," has resonated for decades with leaders from all walks of life. Some revere it so much that they display it on their walls, carry it in their diaries, or even tattoo its words onto their bodies. It's a true gem that speaks to anyone who has faced daunting challenges. And you know what? Garth Brooks' song, "Standing Outside the Fire," captures similar sentiments. So, let's look at the lessons this poem offers to help us amplify our leadership impact.

Lesson 1: Embrace Courage and Take the Stage

You know what all great achievers realize? It's far better to stumble ‘on the stage’ than to be part of the crowd, watching opportunities in life pass us by. The poem teaches us that courageous action is key to leading well and living a fulfilled life. As leaders, we can't shy away from challenges or settle for playing it safe. The poem reminds us we need to step into the arena, embrace audacious endeavours, and face obstacles head-on. It's in those moments, amidst the flames of adversity, that we truly come alive and give ourselves the best shot at make a lasting impact.

Lesson 2: Embrace Failure as Part of the Journey

Here's the thing: it's far better to have tried and failed than to have never tried at all. Our defeats, just like our victories, hold valuable lessons. They shape us, teach us resilience, and refine our leadership skills. So, let's not be afraid to make mistakes. Rather, be persistent. Let's view failure as an opportunity for growth. As leaders, we courageously step onto the playing field. We are fully aware that some days we'll stumble, but we know the insights we gain, can cause real magic to happen. Think about the multitude of remarkable scientific inventions, innovative business solutions, and creative outputs that emerge from mistakes!

Lesson 3: Don't Let Critics Hold You Back

You know what they say about critics, right? They can't limit us unless we let them. The poem reminds us that leaders belong on the field, not in the grandstand, where critics reside. We can't allow the fear of judgment or disapproval to hinder our progress. Instead, let's dare greatly, take risks, and embrace our unique vision. Authentic leadership demands that we rise above the noise and stay true to our convictions, even in the face of criticism.

So, there you have it. "Answering the Critic" teaches us that leadership is all about showing up, even when things aren't perfect and setbacks happen. If we have the courage to step into the leadership arena, take on big challenges, learn from both our failures and victories and don’t let the critics distract us, we give ourselves the best shot at personal success and making a real impact that goes way beyond ourselves. The credit belongs to us.

Always interested in your personal insights.

Full text of the poem:

It is not the critic who counts: not those

who point out where our strong

people stumbled or when the doer of 

deeds could have done better.

The credit belongs to those who are 

actually in the arena. Whose faces are

marred by dust and sweat and blood;

who strive valiantly, who err and

come short again and again; who

know great enthusiasms; who at best 

know the triumph of high

achievement; and who at worst if they

fall, at least fall while daring greatly. 

So that their place will never be with

those cold and timid souls, who know 

neither victory nor defeat.