A leader is someone whose actions have the most profound consequences on other people's lives, for better or worse, sometime forever and ever.

Think of a crucible as an occasion for real magic, the creation of something more valuable than an alchemist could possibly imagine. In it, the individual is transformed, changed, created anew. He or she grows in ways that change his or her definition of self.

Leaders must encourage their organizations to dance to forms of music yet to be heard.

Possess the "Nobel Factor": Possess and constantly demonstrate optimism, faith, and hope. They create choices. I am reminded of an ancient Chinese proverb: "That the birds of worry and care fly above your head, this you cannot change; but that they build nests in your hair, this you can prevent."

Every great group is an island... but an island with a bridge to the mainland.

People who know what they want and why they want it, and have the skills to communicate that to others in a way that gains support

Without a terrific leader, you're not going to have a Great Group. But it is also true that you're not going to have a great leader without a Great Group.