John F. Kennedy on Leadership

His Own Man

John F. Kennedy changed the presidency. He used the media and his own celebrity to hold public interest. Yet, he also advanced a controversial political agenda, relying on political acumen and leadership as well as style. JFK earned his leadership credentials with decisive action based on firm principles, including the following:

Develop a Carefully Prepared Vision

Your vision must encourage and motivate people to act. Make it unforgettable, unmistakable and widely accessible. Kennedy's vision was shaped by the Cold War, communist expansion into China and Cuba, and questions about how America's consumer society conflicted with its "national purpose." For guidance, JFK modeled himself after Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Both men came from wealthy families, served in military positions and entered politics after their return to civilian life. To be widely accepted, a vision should be straightforward, easily understood, optimistic, unforgettable and complimentary to the audience's values. The speaker should personify the vision. When this vision is grand enough, it can also be flexible and take on different meanings for different groups...