Commencement Quotes to Inspire Your Leadership

It’s almost graduation season! Even if you’re many years donning a cap and gown, read these quotes from commencement addresses for a few minutes of inspiration to become a better communicator, coach and leader. No politician included (on purpose). Enjoy!
“Keep asking questions. Keep demanding change. But remember: Activism can’t truly lead to lasting, meaningful change without dialogue, even with those with whom you may disagree.”
Katie Couric, Journalist
“I can tell you with absolute conviction that managing compassionately is not just a better way to build a team, it’s a better way to build a company. It’s not just about what you’re trying to accomplish, it’s about how you’re trying to accomplish it.”
Jeff Weiner, CEO, LinkedIn
“Failure is not something to be ashamed of, it’s something to be powered by. Failure is the highest octane fuel your life can run on. You gotta learn to make failure your fuel.”
Abby Wambach, Athlete
“If you want to fly high, in business or in life, you’ve got to keep your feet on the ground, and stay rooted to what matters most. The Chobani journey has taught me something special: what matters most in business and in life is the difference you make for other people, for your community, for your country and for humanity.”
Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder & Chairman, Chobani
“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” Colin Powell, Retired Four-star Army general
“The distance between number one and number two is always a constant. If you want to improve the organization, you have to improve yourself and the organization gets pulled up with you. That is a big lesson. I cannot just expect the organization to improve if I don’t improve myself.”
Indira Nooyi, CEO, Pepsi
“Surround yourself with people you trust and who get you. Surround yourself with people who don’t mind saying it like it is. Keep them close. They have literally saved my life and career in more ways than they know.”
Josh Groban, Singer/Songwriter
Need more ideas on building an ownership culture as a leader? Get in touch: maureen.clayton@nesteggcommunications.com