Level 5 leaders channel their ego needs away from themselves and into the larger goal of building a great company. It's not that Level 5 leaders have no ego or self-interest. Indeed, they are incredibly ambitious-but their ambition is first and foremost for the institution, not themselves.
James C. CollinsMost people will look back and realize they did not have a great life because it's just so easy to settle for a good life.
James C. CollinsYou can't manufacture passion or "motivate" people to feel passionate. You can only discover what ignites your passion and the passions of those around you.
James C. CollinsSome managers are uncomfotable with expressing emotion about their dreams, but it's the passion and emotion that will attract and motivate others.
James C. CollinsThe best CEOs in our research display tremendous ambition for their company combined with the stoic will to do whatever it takes, no matter how brutal (within the bounds of the company's core values), to make the company great. Yet at the same time they display a remarkable humility about themselves, ascribing much of their own success to luck, discipline and preparation rather than personal genius.
James C. Collins