Over the holidays, I  saw the  Lincoln movie (released in Dec 2012) and was struck by what master project manager.   I have always had a great admiration for Abraham Lincoln, but frankly did not understand the depth of his character and convictions.

The movie opens at the beginning of Lincoln’s second term (after his re-elect and prior to his 2nd term).  And I wondered if the timing of the movie release was significant because in Dec 2012 (the movie’s first release),  President Obama was in the exact time-period prior to his 2nd term of office.

The movie focused on two of the most important events in the history of the United States — the passage of the 13th Amendment and the end of the Civil War. The movie does not focus on the life of Abraham Lincoln, but rather on his tremendous leadership in the final four months of his presidency.

Lincoln was a master project manager.

He was a caring father and friend, as well as leader of the United States.

He held certain principles as unalienable rights that all men are created equal under the law.

He also firmly believed that the United States could only sustain in history as a ‘united’ government versus separate states.

It was truly an inspiring sight to see the Congress, perhaps more divided than ours today, pass the 13th Amendment.  Only a few of the men realized that they were actually making history on that day.  It was inspiring to watch Lincoln manage his opposition.  His invaluable leadership and wisdom shines in this movie.

Who are your heroes in history?

How do they inspire you into principled based action?

How do they help you keep your non-negotiables?  To create a list of your non-negotiables, download the Non-Negotiable and Imperative Worksheet at http://eepurl.com/n3EpX