Failure of Succession

Don’t let ego get in the way

General George Washington Resigning His Commission by John Trumbull, Architect of the Capitol, 1817 (public domain - Wikpedia)

“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” — Lord Acton, 1887

We all have a finite amount of time on this earth.

And an even more limited time in our jobs, despite a possible desire to remain on longer.

Once exposed to the trappings of power, it’s only natural to want to remain in such a position, with all of the comforts and ego-boosting amenities that accompany it.

At times, the ego can get in the way—even in the best leaders. But more so from those who might not be quite as competent.

Notice I didn’t say charismatic; there are far too many instances where charisma makes up for talent deficit disorder in leaders.

While the Roman Empire lasted nearly 1,000 years, it had its fair share of issues with inc…