Lessons From Santa Anna

Best known to Americans as the Mexican general at the Alamo, Santa Anna consistently made catastrophic political and military blunders. During the course of his public career, Santa Anna lost 1/3 of Mexico’s territory in warfare, and sold another 30,000 acres to the United States to finance his attempts to suppress revolt. Historians cites egotism as the cause of the general’s failures as a leader.

Keeping your ego in check. As evidenced by Santa Anna, leaders who are overly concerned with self-promotion eventually wreck their legacies. And, in their efforts to exalt themselves, they often end up looking ridiculous. 

Seek feedback. Humble leaders know they cannot succeed without the combined contributions of all other members of the team. Accordingly, they avoid any action that might constrain input or intimidate anyone else from voicing a concern. 

Delegate decisions. Prideful leaders clutch tightly to control, believing they are best suited to make every decision. In doing so, they feed their ego and enfeeble their team.  

Express gratitude. Leaders who show thankfulness seldom fall prey to pride. By giving credit to someone else, leaders uplift their teammates and keep themselves grounded.   

—The Coaching and Leadership Journal

With Santa Anna in Texas: A Personal Narrative of the Revolution