Jeffersonian Advice For C-Suite Career Advancement

The mold was broken when the child who would become President Thomas Jefferson was born. He was a unique, unconventional individual known for his fortitude and determination in everything that he aspired to accomplish. Despite many hardships and personal tragedies, he persevered and made the best of any given situation. These qualities indicate why he went on to become one of the most respected Presidents of all time.

Today’s C-Suite executives can take a lesson or two from Jefferson. In Jeffrey Hayzlett’s recent Huffington Post article, he imparts the following advice in an effort to advance the careers of C-Suite executives:

“Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.”

Executives who are on the ground with their finger on the pulse of their business and leading by example are the ones who are taking their companies into the future.

“It takes time to persuade men to do even what is for their own good.”

Companies don’t grow by sitting comfortably on the sidelines. They grow by taking educated risks. C-suite executives should have a good idea on the ROI before making a new investment, but don’t be afraid to be bold. Look beyond the status quo for a better way of doing things. Do what no one has ever done before. Lead the way and embrace the possibilities.

“I was bold in the pursuit of knowledge, never fearing to follow truth and reason to whatever results they led, and bearding every authority which stood in their way.”

Knowledge is power. Jefferson knew that. He would often spend evenings in deep conversations around dinner and wine. But it wasn’t just about being social. It was about learning from his peers – taking their best ideas and applying it to his situations.

C-suite leaders should do the same. Seek out people who’ve done it before, and learn from them. And when you’re at the top, repay the favor. You never know how your small act of kindness might help someone succeed and thus, repay you in turn.

For more Jeffersonian advice for C-Suite executives, read the full article in Huffington Post.

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