Max De Pree

“Polishing the status quo is the same as decay.”

“The signs of outstanding leadership appear primarily among the followers.”

“We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.”

“Management has a lot to do with answers. Leadership is a function of questions.”

“Leaders don't inflict pain, they share pain.”

“Inclusiveness is a prerequisite to empowerment.”

“Leadership is a condition of indebtedness.”

“To be a leader means, especially, having the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who permit leaders to lead.”

“The art of leadership is liberating people to do what is required of them in the most effective and humane way possible.”

“A passion for legacy is the cornerstone of all leadership.”

“The first question for a leader always is: 'Who do we intend to be?' Not 'What are we going to do?'”

“The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.”

“Leadership is an art, something to be learned over time, not simply a set of rules to be followed.”

“Erosion of trust is a leader's most serious vulnerability.”

“The measure of leadership is not the quality of the head, but the tone of the body.”

“Leaders should leave behind them assets and a legacy.”

“Trust is the lubrication that makes it possible for organizations to work.”

“Leaders are obligated to provide and maintain momentum.”