Hang tough

1. Strive to be a leader of character, competence, and courage.

2. Lead from the front. Say, "Follow me!" and then lead the way.

3. Stay in top physical shape-physical stamina is the root of mental toughness.

4. Develop your team. If you know your people, are fair in setting realistic goals and expectations, and lead by example, you will develop teamwork.

5. Delegate responsibility to your subordinates and let them do their jobs. You can't do a good job if you don't have a chance to use your imagination or your creativity.

6. Anticipate problems and prepare to overcome obstacles. Don't wait until you get to the top of the ridge and then make up your mind.

7. Remain humble. Don't worry about who receives the credit. Never let power or authority go to your head.

8. Take a moment of self-reflection. Look at yourself in the mirror every night and ask yourself if you did your best. True satisfaction comes from getting the job done.

9. The key to a successful leader is to earn respect-not because of rank or position, but because you are a leader of character.

10. Hang Tough!-Never, ever, give up.

- Ten principles for successful leadership: Major Dick Winters, US Army 101st Airborne

Work. Dizziness and pain. Home. A visit from fantastic Sam to do some dance company business. The Dizzle got his iPod. Made supper for my gorgeous soul mate...But another one of those days when the idiocy of the forces you are subject to wear you down, and you fall asleep out of sheer self protection ...

But then I woke up and decided I had a choice between crawling off to bed or waking up...

I'm fed up with being on the back foot. Gonna find me a ridge, make me a plan, and climb ... Thanks Dick, you're my everyday, common sense, regular guy hero.