Don't necessarily avoid sharp edges. Occasionally they are necessary to leadership

Don't necessarily avoid sharp edges. Occasionally they are necessary to leadership

Donald Rumsfeld, the former Secretary of Defense under President George W. Bush, is a controversial figure in American politics. Known for his tough demeanor and no-nonsense approach to leadership, Rumsfeld was not one to shy away from sharp edges when it came to making tough decisions. In fact, he often embraced them as a necessary part of his leadership style.

Rumsfeld's tenure as Secretary of Defense was marked by his willingness to make difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions in the face of adversity. He was known for his blunt and direct communication style, often using sharp edges to cut through bureaucratic red tape and get things done. While this approach may have rubbed some people the wrong way, it was effective in getting results and achieving his goals.

One of the most famous examples of Rumsfeld's use of sharp edges in leadership was his handling of the Iraq War. As one of the chief architects of the war, Rumsfeld faced intense criticism for his handling of the conflict and the aftermath. However, he remained steadfast in his belief that the war was necessary and that the United States had a moral obligation to remove Saddam Hussein from power.

Rumsfeld's willingness to embrace sharp edges in leadership was not without its consequences. His brash and confrontational style often alienated those around him, leading to strained relationships with colleagues and subordinates. However, Rumsfeld believed that in order to be an effective leader, one must be willing to make tough decisions and stand by them, even in the face of criticism.