Yes we can... learn something from Obama.

During these quiet summer weeks, I have studied some aspects of the presidency of Barack Obama. As a starting point I read the book "The World As It Is" by Ben Rhodes. He has written the most important speeches for Obama. In addition, he was in the innermost circle of decision makers in the White House. Also exciting was watching the movie "The Final Year". This documentary deals - nomen est omen - with the last year of the presidency Obama. Furthermore I have read and watched many speeches. Whatever you think of his politics - he is a thoughtful and energizing speaker. Great examples are the keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention in 2004. Or his speech to the Muslim World in Cairo in 2009. Or the eulogy for nine slain parishioners in Charleston. At the end of the speech in Charleston Obama starts singing Amazing Grace. Watching the video brought tears into my eyes. Or, more recently, the speech at the Nelson Mandela Annual lecture including a fine overview of global politics and some hints on his thoughts on Trump-era politics (thanks to my brother Timothy for the reference). Never underestimate the power of a good speech!

My conclusions

• Be value-based: If you align your decisions according to your values, you will reach your goals sooner because your credibility is greater.
• Tell a story: Naked figures and facts do not arouse emotions. These may be sufficient as a basis for decision making by technocrats. But if you want to bring about real change, you have to tell a story. Always try to be optimistic. And if it fits: be funny.
• Be focused: The Obama administration has focused on a very limited number of core issues. These were defined iteratively before the two terms and then implemented step by step.
• Know your playing field: I have always liked the modern stoic approach called trichotomy of control: i) complete control, ii) no control, iii) some control.

Taking into account the last item on the list of conclusions, I also realize that the "zone of control" of a US president is smaller than you may think. In the current context, this is a thoroughly positive aspect.

What did you learn from Obama?