Why I'm Liking Warren Buffett

Right now, I'm inspired by Warren Buffett. . .and it's not because he is ridiculously wealthy.    It's because, as a nationally recognized business leader, he has the courage to do two thing:   suggest a tax increase for himself (and others of similar wealth) to help solve the current economic dilemma and further, lead the country with a positive, nationally televised, "America's a winner" message.

First things first.   Often it is the negative, oh-woe-is-me message that receives the most news coverage.  Particularly galling is the hand-wringing among the very wealthy (who  typically do not have to worry about their health insurance or making the mortgage or concern themselves about the price of heating oil.)  The millionaires who complain about how bad their taxes are have no contact with the great middle ground of America, much of which would be happy to trade places with them, even if it did mean a higher tax bill.

In contradiction to this stands Warren Buffett, who has some of the finer financial credentials this country has seen.   Mr. Buffett has said, on numerous occasions, that he believes he personally should pay more taxes;  moreover, he says that the others who are as financially fortunate as he should do the same.    That takes a high degree of leadership.

Pragmatic as he is, Mr. Buffett does not believe a higher tax rate for the very wealthy would stagnate growth.   He believes that any individual, presented with a smart investment opportunity that would reap higher rewards that a standard interest rate would avail themselves of that opportunity, even if it meant a few extra points of taxes.

Secondly, Mr. Buffett is leading with the positive, saying  on NBC's Today Show that he believes the American economy has been improving for the past three years, that it will be strong in the  next decades and he concludes with the words we should hear more often, "America's a Winner."

Moreover, he puts his money behind his words.  In 2012, his companies will have invested a record $9 billion in infrastructure, a 10% increase over the year previous, which in its own right was a record.   While some may be sitting on the sidelines, Mr. Buffett is truly investing in job creation and growing the economy.

So,  who would you rather follow?   The naysayers or someone who has a positive vision, like Mr. Buffett?   For me, Buffett wins, hands down.

He is unafraid to take a stand that others may disparage.  He has the humanity to think in broader terms of what is good for the country, versus what is convenient for him.   He has the vision to be confident in America.

Here's the lesson for us as leaders.   Do we have a similar amount of courage?   Do we have the humanity to do what is in the best interest of the majority, versus what may be convenient for us?   Do we publicly advocate a positive message for our mission?   Do we lead with confidence?

Each of these is a great leadership trait, whether in the office, factory or national stage.