This article examines five key lessons from the life and career of Enda Kenny, former Taoiseach of Ireland. It highlights his long and steady climb to power, his ability to build and maintain effective teams, his focus on building relationships, and his willingness to take difficult but ultimately wise decisions.
Kenny's career exemplifies the value of persistence. His path to leadership was not immediate; he faced setbacks and challenges, including an unsuccessful leadership bid in 2001. His eventual success underscores the importance of resilience in overcoming obstacles.
Kenny successfully surrounded himself with competent individuals, including Phil Hogan and Michael Noonan, forming a collaborative and effective team. This demonstrates the critical role of capable collaborators in achieving political goals.
The article emphasizes Kenny's ability to build and maintain positive relationships, despite political pressures. His collaborative approach, even amidst austerity measures, is noted as a key aspect of his leadership.
Kenny's decision to avoid defaulting on Ireland's debt in 2011, despite significant pressure, demonstrates the importance of making tough choices and weighing long-term consequences over short-term popularity. Although unpopular, this decision proved beneficial in the long run.
The article concludes with the lesson that even with successful leadership, appreciation isn't guaranteed. Despite leading Ireland through economic recovery, the austerity measures implemented led to unpopularity, highlighting that effective leadership doesn't always translate into immediate public gratitude.