The Federal Government should be the last resort, not the first. Ask if a potential program is truly a federal responsibility or whether it can better be handled privately, by voluntary organizations, or by local or state governments. Donald Rumsfeld federalgovernmenthandle share on social
In politics, every day is filled with numerous opportunities for serious error. Enjoy it. Donald Rumsfeld dayenjoyerror Change image and share on social
If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much. Donald Rumsfeld criticize Change image and share on social
Look for what's missing. Many advisors can tell a President how to improve what's proposed or what's gone amiss. Few are able to see what isn't there. Donald Rumsfeld advisoramissimprove Change image and share on social
It isn't making mistakes that's critical; it's correcting them and getting on with the principal task. Donald Rumsfeld correctcriticalmake Change image and share on social
Reduce the number of lawyers. They are like beavers - they get in the middle of the stream and dam it up. Donald Rumsfeld beaverdamlawyer Change image and share on social
Visit with your predecessors from previous Administrations. They know the ropes and can help you see around some corners. Try to make original mistakes, rather than needlessly repeating theirs. Donald Rumsfeld administrationcornermake Change image and share on social
Members of the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate are not there by accident. Each managed to get there for some reason. Learn what it was and you will know something important about them, about our country and about the American people. Donald Rumsfeld accidentamericancountry share on social
In our system leadership is by consent, not command. To lead a President must persuade. Personal contacts and experiences help shape his thinking. They can be critical to his persuasiveness and thus to his leadership. Donald Rumsfeld commandconsentcontact share on social
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. Donald Rumsfeld affordamateurback share on social
