People in great groups have blinders on. Their work is all they see. They value failures as learning opportunities. They are optimistic, not realistic, as they proceed from one challenge and crisis to the next.

The future has no shelf life

Innovation- any new idea-by definition will not be accepted at first. It takes repeated attempts, endless demonstrations, monotonous rehearsals before innovation can be accepted and internalized by an organization. This requires courageous patience.

Growing other leaders from the ranks isn't just the duty of the leader, it's an obligation.

Understand the "Pygmalion Effect": Leaders should always expect the very best of those around them. They know that people can change and grow.

See the long view: By all means "plant the corn, milk the cows, and feed the horses" but always keep the eventual "harvest" in mind.

That is the key challenge facing management today; change is the only constant.