Some of the key points of Rumsfields rules that resonated with me were:
Remember: A’s hire A’s and B’s hire C’s.
Find ways to decentralize. Move decision-making authority down and out. Encourage a more entrepreneurial approach.
“In writing if it takes over 30 minutes to write the first two paragraphs select another subject.” — Raymond Aron
“Behold the turtle. He makes progress only when he sticks his neck out.” — James B. Conant
“When you’re skiing, if you’re not falling you’re not trying.” — Donald Rumsfeld
Don’t be a bottleneck. If a matter is not a decision for the president or you, delegate it. Force responsibility down and out. Find problem areas, add structure, and delegate. The pressure is to do the reverse. Resist it.
Think ahead. Don’t let day-to-day operations drive out planning.