Lincoln Continues to Inspire

By Jim Blasingame February 16, 2009

Who would argue against the belief that Abraham Lincoln was one of the most important individuals in the history of the United States? On the occasion of his 200th birthday, and 144 years after his death, Lincoln's life and hard times continue to inspire generation after generation of leaders and followers.
       
No group is more the beneficiary of Lincoln's legacy than small business owners. Virtually every day along the ownership continuum, from start-up to retirement, small business owners draw strength and inspiration from the uncomplicated effectiveness of Lincoln's leadership witness. But, ironically, beyond his record as a leader, we're perhaps more inspired by how Lincoln persevered in the face of adversity and failures.
       
Here's a short list of the life challenges of Lincoln.

• Failed in business in 1831 and 1833.
• Defeated for state legislator in 1932.
• Fiancee died in '35.
• Had a nervous breakdown in '36.
• Ran for Congress in '43 and '48; lost both races.
• Ran for the Senate in '55 and '59; lost both races.
• Ran for Vice President in 1856 and lost.
• Elected President in 1860, as the American house divided and dissolved into civil war.
• Buried two of his four beloved sons.

Reading this list you're sure to be overwhelmed by two emotions: 1) Sadness - that any one person would experience so many unfortunate things; and 2) Admiration - that anyone could have accomplished so much in the face of such adversity.
       
Nine years after critics wrote him off as a political player, Lincoln accomplished leadership feats and professional successes that were nothing short of heroic, and for which history recognizes him as one of the greatest American presidents. Lincoln has taught us that the difference between our boldest accomplishments and painful setbacks is often the courage, character and diligence to persevere.
       
As 2009 continues to unfold, a year that will surely challenge our own character, if you're ever tempted to slump into a self-involved pity party because of your challenges, go back and re-read Lincoln's failures and setbacks. This time you might feel two other emotions: 1) Shame - that you allowed yourself to lapse into a funk; and 2) Renewed perseverance - now realizing that, like Lincoln, as long as you're alive, every new day that you show up to work on your business and life could be the day that you turn the corner and win the war.
       
Write this on a rock... There is no better model of courage, character and perseverance than Abraham Lincoln. Let his life inspire yours.

Jim Blasingame is creator and host of the Small Business Advocate Show.
Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved.

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