Lessons of the Great Leaders You Can Apply Today

One of those things that are never ever in and out of fashion is leadership. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, whether you’re a leader of a group of individuals, or perhaps even just if you’re simply attempting to get your own life straightened out, there is so much that we can glean from the great leaders of the past. Here on this blog post, we’re digging up leadership lessons from three of the world’s most amazing leaders: Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, and Steve Jobs. They’re not flash-in-the-pan points—they’re real-life, universal, and just waiting for you to get it done today.

Why Leadership Lessons Matter

Great leading persons don’t just make headlines; they leave behind ideas that stick with us. The leadership lessons we’ll explore here show how to tackle challenges, inspire people, and leave a mark—whether you’re in a boardroom or your living room. Let’s break down what Lincoln, Gandhi, and Jobs can teach us about leading well today.

Abraham Lincoln: Keep Going, No Matter What

Abraham Lincoln, United States President #16, led the country through the Civil War—its bloody, split years. The leadership lesson he learned? Stick-to-it-iveness. There were disappointments in Lincoln’s life: eight lost elections and defeat for him, but never once did he quit. He kept right on working to preserve the union and end slavery, even when prospects were dim.

He taught us famously, “I do not win, but I am meant to be true.” That’s the abridged version of his leadership mantra: never give up, however impossible things get.

That speaks to me. Maybe you’re getting rejected at work, or you’re not moving towards a personal goal. Lincoln’s philosophy of leadership is that training is training: stick with it. It isn’t easy, but sticking with it is worth it. The next time you’re about to quit, learn from Lincoln and have patience.

Mahatma Gandhi: Lead with Heart and Peace

Mahatma Gandhi freed India from British domination without ever clenching his fists. His lesson in moral leadership is one of non-violence and honesty. Gandhi lived “”Satyagraha”—for the truth and against wrong with gentle force. His noted Salt March, his 240-mile march in protest against a special tax placed on salt, was proof of the effectiveness of soft force.

What is the leadership lesson here?

You don’t scream and push people around to be a leading person. In that instant, office battles or home front skirmishes—Gandhi’s method is an exercise in self-discipline, standing up for your principles, and negotiating from the heart. Ever tried it? The next time you’re in the midst of a battle, take a deep breath and lead with empathy. It is a lesson in leadership that speaks for itself and leads to real results.

Steve Jobs: Dream Big and Innovate

Apple visionary Steve Jobs merged technology with a work of art. Vision and innovation are the leadership mantra. Dismissed from Apple in 1985 but back in 1997 when Apple was in the tank. Shook out the crap, focused on design, and brought us game-changers like the iPhone and iPad. “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower,” Jobs claimed, and he certainly did.

For me, that leadership lesson means thinking outside the box. Trapped in a job or trapped at home—Jobs’ legacy tells you: shake it. Seek out a new point of view, be willing to gamble, and bring something new. That leadership lesson is not one for geeks in tech alone; it’s one for anyone who’s willing to be bold and break beyond.

Applying Leadership Lessons Every Day

These leadership lessons from Lincoln, Gandhi, and Jobs aren’t just for big shots—they’re for all of us. Here’s how to make them work in real life:

In the Workplace

Lincoln’s Perseverance: Tackle that tough project one step at a time, even when it feels impossible.

Gandhi’s Integrity: Be the coworker people trust—honest and fair, no matter what.

Jobs’ Innovation: Pitch a wild idea or streamline a clunky process. Shake up the status quo.
In Your Community

Gandhi’s Moral Courage: Stand up for what’s right, such as volunteering for something you care about.

Lincoln’s Resilience: Persist, even when organizing is dirty or turnout is patchy.

Jobs’ Vision: Think of a new event or fundraiser—something nobody has ever tried.
In Personal Growth

Jobs’ Creativity: Push a hobby or goal that challenges you, such as painting or running.

Gandhi’s Discipline: Stay true to your values—don’t settle for the shortcuts that don’t sit right with you.

Lincoln’s Grit: Plug through obstacles, like a budget or a workout routine.

These leadership habits are pocketknives of leadership—carry them with you wherever you go. They enable you to grow and build the people who surround you.

Wrapping It Up: Your Turn to Lead

The leadership values of Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, and Steve Jobs are these: hold on, be yourself, and dream big. Lincoln showed us how to survive the worst of times. Gandhi showed us that you could lead with your heart and didn’t have to resort to power. Jobs encouraged us to dream about what’s next and make it happen.
Best of all, no title is necessary to implement any of these lessons. Start small—maybe it’s being nice to a cranky neighbor or repairing something that isn’t fixed in your life. Try on one of the lessons that speaks to you most and see what occurs this week. Leadership isn’t being perfect; it’s being and making a difference.

So, what’s your next step? These leadership tips are yours to make waves with—go forth and make waves!