Find ways to decentralize. Move decision making authority down and out. Encourage a more entrepreneurial approach.

If you can't solve a problem, make it bigger.

What is needed [to combat terrorism], in my view, is resolve, not retreat; courage, not concession. Rather than thinking in terms of an exit strategy, focus on a strategy for success.

When someone with a rural accent says, "I don't know much about politics," zip up your pockets.

You will launch many projects, but have time to finish only a few. So think, plan, develop, launch and tap good people to be responsible. Give them authority and hold them accountable. Trying to do too much yourself creates a bottleneck.

"Do you have any regrets?" Of course I do.

Your performance depends on your people. Select the best, train them and back them. When errors occur, give sharper guidance. If errors persist or if the fit feels wrong, help them move on. The country cannot afford amateur hour in the White House.