PART FIVE Willpower and Work

Why should there be a separate chapter for the exercising of willpower at work? Surely the same precepts are in play? Well, the answer is yes and no.

I asked a variety of successful leaders, ones from corporate life and others who have their own businesses, how willpower might have played a part in their success. Let’s start with some thoughts from Sir Richard Greenbury. I interviewed him many years ago, just before he left Marks and Spencer, and asked him about his success and how he would advise young aspiring leaders.

“I had to learn to develop and communicate a consistent vision and so I had to have a very clear idea of where the business was going. I also learned to acquire patience. Not everyone thinks ...

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