Men,
This morning, we will delve into one of the most iconic figures in history in regards to leadership and masculinity.
I am speaking of none other than Alexander the Great.
Here is a short backstory about the 20-year old king:
Alexander was born to King Phillip of Macedonia in 356 B.C.
At the age of 16, he was already a general in the army.
At 20, King Phillip was murdered and Alexander was elevated to the throne.
Becoming King, he built a notorious reputation amongst many - soldiers and citizens alike.
Alexander ruled, conquered, and assimilated countries into his domain.
His success was no an accident.
Due to thorough preparation and his logical approach to warfare, Alexander’s empire expanded at a rapid rate.
Let’s take a look at some of the factors of his success:
Making logistics an important part of his preparation
Maintaining single points of control
Incorporating new technology into his arsenal
Gathering knowledge about his enemy’s armies, the terrain, and even harvest calendars
So what can we learn from the ancient king in today’s world?
1. Have a compelling vision
Alexander’s achievements are proof of what can be accomplished when a man is devoted to one goal.
Passion, tempered by clarity and reason.
As Alexander rolled out his rhetorical skills and sympathetic gestures on his people, he amassed many supporters.
Mainly by speaking to the imagination of the people.
2. Be unsurpassed in execution
Besides having a compelling vision, Alexander also had the drive to make it a reality.
No other leader before him ever used speed and the power of surprise so prolifically.
A vision is useless without taking action.
3. All that matters, is what you’ve done
Not what you said that you’d do.
Not what you almost did.
No, the only things that count are the actions you performed and the results you gained.
Internalize this.
Practice taking action, instead of philosophizing about it.
Something I would like to personally add - pray about it FIRST.
4. Focus on knowledge, rather than power
When you have true practical knowledge, is when you can achieve anything in this world.
Knowledge is power.
Not the other way around.
A stupid King is not someone you would follow.
A wise peasant is, however.
5. Have the right attitude
People who have achieved something in their life, all have one thing in common:
Their attitude.
It’s positive, radiant, and uplifting.
When having such an attitude, you will demolish your self-limiting beliefs.
6. Nothing is impossible to who tries
You may have setbacks.
People will criticize you.
You may hit rock bottom.
And still you got to get up in the morning and try.
What other option is there? Stopping?
Not in your book.
7. The greatest danger is an army of sheep led by a lion
And not an army of lions led by a sheep.
An army of trustworthy, obedient soldiers with a formidable leader is extremely dangerous.
Therefore, leadership isn’t a trait to be underestimated.
A true leader is ferocious when it comes to the journey of life.
8. All achievements stand on their own
Two achievements are never the same.
No matter how many cups you’ve obtained, how many enemies you’ve conquered, or how many fights you’ve won.
All achievements are special to their own right.
Achievements should therefore never be counted in numbers.
9. The perfect match of strength, skill, and knowledge brings synergy
These 3 can’t be acquired without one another.
Without the knowledge, skill can’t be concentrated.
Without skill, strength can’t be cultivated.
Without strength, knowledge might be failed to be applied.
Focus on a balance.
10. Create a great circle
Alexander knew like no other, how to build a well-rounded team around him to support his quests.
It was crucial in his success.
And so should you.
Build a circle of friends that supports you and challenges you to be the best version of yourself.
11. Walk the talk
Always remember that everything starts with you and your actions.
Don’t tell people, show them.
Let them be inspired by your actions and lead by serving.
Alexander always led his men into battle, which filled them with courage.
I challenge you to take these lessons and apply at least 1 of them today.
If you want to learn more of the illustrious Alexander the Great, here is a fascinating video to watch.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam,
Nick | Catholic Manhood