I think leadership is more than just being able to cross the t's

Hear now the words of Steve Largent, a man who knew both the triumphs of the field and the trials of public life: “I think leadership is more than just being able to cross the t's and dot the i's. It's about character and integrity and work ethic.” In this statement lies a truth eternal: that leadership is not found in the perfection of details alone, but in the deeper virtues that sustain trust and inspire action. A man may master procedures, perfect systems, and execute tasks with precision, yet if he lacks character, if he falters in integrity, if he shirks the labor of work ethic, his leadership is hollow and cannot endure.

The ancients taught that a true leader is like the root of a mighty tree. The leaves may glisten, the branches may spread, but it is the unseen root that anchors and nourishes all. So it is with character. It is invisible to the eye, yet it is the foundation of trust. Without it, the leader sways with every storm and crumbles in the face of pressure. With it, the leader stands firm, drawing others to shelter under his strength. Leadership, therefore, is not built on appearances, but on the unseen depth of a soul grounded in virtue.

History offers us the shining example of George Washington. He was not the most brilliant tactician of his time, nor was he flawless in his decisions. But his soldiers followed him through frost, famine, and fire because they saw in him an unshakable integrity and tireless work ethic. He did not command respect merely because of his rank; he earned it by enduring hardship alongside his men, by refusing the temptations of absolute power, and by choosing service over personal gain. Thus was he entrusted not only with victory in war, but with the birth of a new nation. His leadership was more than “crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s”—it was the embodiment of character.

Yet the world has also witnessed leaders who perfected details but lacked the virtues Largent describes. Consider those who obsessed over policy or efficiency, but allowed corruption or pride to hollow their reign. Their rule was precise, yet brittle. Their commands were followed in form, but their people’s hearts were never won. For details may organize, but only integrity inspires; systems may function, but only work ethic earns the loyalty of others. Leadership that lacks these deeper virtues collapses under its own emptiness, leaving behind only ruins and regret.

Largent’s words remind us that leadership is not a science of perfection, but a calling of character. It is not about appearing flawless, but about being trustworthy. It is not about commanding others, but about setting an example so strong that others choose to follow willingly. The leader who possesses integrity will be believed even when he stumbles. The leader who embodies work ethic will inspire even when the road is hard. The leader who lives by character will leave behind a legacy greater than monuments or laws.

The lesson is clear: in your own life, if you would lead, do not concern yourself first with the fine polish of details, but with the strength of your inner foundation. Ask yourself: do I act with honesty even when no one sees? Do I labor diligently even when no one praises? Do I hold to virtue even when it costs me? For in these quiet, unseen choices, true leadership is forged.

Practical action follows this wisdom: commit yourself each day to honesty in word and deed. Strive not only for success, but for the integrity that makes success honorable. Work not only for reward, but with the ethic that transforms toil into trust. For those who see you will follow not your precision, but your character; not your title, but your integrity; not your instructions, but your work ethic. In this way, you will embody the kind of leadership that endures when the storms of life arise.

So remember, O listener: true leadership is more than the perfection of form—it is the perfection of the heart. Cultivate your character, guard your integrity, strengthen your work ethic, and you shall lead not only with authority, but with the power of example that moves generations to follow.