Leadership in the Face of Uncertainty
Lessons from Eisenhower for Today’s Graduates
“A day unlike any other.”
- Andy Rooney
Leadership in the Face of Uncertainty
Graduation season is a wonderful time of year, celebrating young men and women, including my own son, as they step into new chapters of their lives. This past week was also a time to pause and remember the significance of June 6, 1944—the D-Day invasion of Normandy. It’s hard not to be moved by the courage and sacrifice that marked this pivotal moment in history (see an Andy Rooney video here). Today, those veterans who survived that day are around 100 years old, and those still with us carry with them more than memories of battle but the weight of responsibility and an unbelievable commitment to something greater than themselves.
The lessons of these brave servicemen offer important lessons for today’s graduates. These grads are entering a world that is vastly different from the one those soldiers knew, and yet, the qualities of leadership, responsibility, and accountability are just as important. Our graduates will face challenges and opportunities that no one can fully predict, and just like the leaders of the past, they have the power to shape the world ahead.
One leader whose example stands out from D-Day is General Dwight D. Eisenhower. As Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force, Eisenhower knew the stakes of the invasion. His leadership in those final days leading up to June 6, 1944, serves as a powerful reminder of what it means to lead when the weight of responsibility is heavy and the outcome uncertain.
Eisenhower worked tirelessly, often for 20-hour days, planning the invasion. His dedication was unmatched, but so was his selflessness. He knew that the success of the operation would depend on many people, but he was also prepared to accept total responsibility if things went wrong. The night before D-Day, Eisenhower penned two letters. The first was a message of victory, to be delivered if the operation succeeded. The second, known as the “In Case of Failure” letter, was a rare and candid glimpse into his character. It read:
“Our landings in the Cherbourg-Havre area have failed to gain a satisfactory foothold, and I have withdrawn the troops. My decision to attack at this time and place was based upon the best information available. The troops, the air, and the Navy did all that bravery and devotion to duty could do. If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt, it is mine alone.”
This letter, which was never meant to be seen by the world, speaks volumes about the essence of true leadership. Eisenhower was ready to take full responsibility for the outcome, whether it was success or failure. And it was this very humility, this willingness to look inward and accept accountability, that earned him the respect and admiration of his peers.
Graduates—as you begin your own new journeys, take a moment to reflect on what Eisenhower’s example can teach us. Leadership is not about taking credit for success, but about owning your decisions, actions, and path forward. Even when things don’t go according to plan. You will face challenges, uncertainties, and setbacks along the way. It’s not the absence of failure that defines you, it’s how you respond to it that will.
You are entering a world full of possibilities, but also one that will require you to adapt quickly, make tough decisions, and take responsibility for your actions. Whether you’re stepping into higher education, the workforce, or pursuing your passions, take ownership of your journey and be accountable for the choices you make.
As you move forward into this next phase of life, lead with courage, and when faced with uncertainty, take responsibility, learn from it, and always continue to grow. Your future is in your hands, and it’s yours to shape.
“If any blame or fault attaches to the attempt, it is mine alone.”
— General Dwight Eisenhower
Connecting this quote to the story. Eisenhower demonstrated to the world how true leaders take full responsibility for their decisions and actions, particularly in the face of failure.
This week’s Chasing Influence tip: As you prepare for big moments, always be ready to adapt quickly to unforeseen challenges. However, also be prepared to take full accountability for whatever happens—whether it’s success or failure. Leadership is about facing responsibility head-on, especially in a world that is always changing.
If you enjoyed this story, a series of three Chasing Influence workbooks is available. Stories are accompanied by discussion questions and answers. Each workbook contains 33 lessons to use with any team.
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©Troy Urdahl, 2024