Sound Advice from Those Who Have Been There and Done That

Letters from Leaders: Personal Advice for Tomorrow’s leaders from the World’s Most Influential People is an inspirational, exhilarating read. It makes a perfect gift for a new high school or college graduate - and actually for anyone at any age who strives to make a difference in the world. And who doesn’t?

Henry Dormann, Chairman and Editor in Chief of Leaders magazine, compiled an impressive plethora of letters by world leaders, written to express their philosophies on success. This may sound trite to you at first, but don’t be fooled. After reading the first few letters, I came to realize that ultra successful (and often famous) people are real – just like you and me. They know what it means it work hard and they seem to truly know what is important in life. Hint: it’s not money. Each leader has clearly spent a lot of time planning out his or her path to success, and none ever expected the climb up the ladder to be an easy one. I found their ideologies to be realistic and reassuring. I was also pleased to discover that these letters of advice are not bragging laundry lists of the authors’ accomplishments.

You may be wondering just who are these world leaders?  They are politicians, and business leaders, scientists, inventors and more. From the Dalai Lama and Muhammad Ali to Gerald Ford and the King of Thailand, as well as others with less famous ranks, you will benefit from a wide array of philosophies in Letters from Leaders. Each letter is preceded by a short introduction to the leader with a summary of his her distinctive, and somewhat imposing, accomplishments.

There are so many compelling quotes a reader can take away from this book, that it is a bit overwhelming. Suggestion: mark your copy with sticky notes, so you can reread your favorites. Here’s one of mine:

“You can’t blame your parents, teachers or government for anything. Don’t look in the mirror and whine. You either make the choice to spend each day wisely, preparing yourself for the future, or you don’t.” – Dean Kamen, President, DEKA Research

I highly recommend Letters from Leaders. Any person on the planet who longs to be successful - or already is - will undoubtedly come away with renewed motivation after reading this influential book. What a great read for a new grad or entrepreneur embarking upon a new endeavor.

Debbie Glade/smartpoodle is the Geography Awareness Editor for Wandering Educators.