James MacGregor Burns Quotes

We convince by our presence.

It isn’t leadership if no one follows.

I don't see myself as a leader, I just feel that everything I say, people are listening and people are doing.

Leaders do not sway with the polls. Instead, they sway the polls through their own words and actions.

I have always been aware that you have to get people listening before you can change their minds. Any artist's big fear is being ignored, so if you get debate, that's great.

For me, leadership is making a difference. It's using your agency to bring about change.

In the world of public opinion, the person with the bullhorn is king.

The essence of leadership involves a clear sense of what you want to achieve, the ability to do what may be unpopular … and a willingness to step up

Great men don't 'move to the center' — great men move the center!

If you can’t bring the people with you, you lose the policy

It's hard to name a person who is unpopular who has influence.

People appreciate and follow the person who can persuade them properly. Make that person you.

If you can influence five people, fantastic. If you can influence five hundred people, fantastic. It's all important.

Real power has to do with one's ability to influence the hearts and minds of others.

I know I touch a lot of people. I don't call myself a role model. But I am a leader. Leaders are always watched by team members & outsiders

Everyone has power. But it doesn't help if you don't use it.

Slogans rarely convince the unconvinced. However, they do rally the troops already on your side.

Thinking good thoughts is not enough, doing good deeds is not enough, seeing others follow your good examples is enough.

So if people will pay attention to what I say because of our success as a group, I am going to use that.

Also, I realized a lot of kids are listening to me. Whether I want to be or not, they're looking up to me.

Leading by example is the most powerful advice you can give to anybody.

I'm not in power, but my ideas are in power. And my ideas will prevail.

Leadership is a choice, not a position.

Power is a tool, influence is a skill; one is a fist, the other a fingertip.