Frances Hesselbein, who recently died at the age of 107, was a game-changer for women. For women of her generation, she was MORE than a Jack Welch or Peter Drucker. The women’s leadership icon started with far fewer resources and worked into her 100s, modeling, teaching and writing about leadership. 

Fun fact: she saved the Girl Scouts of America, making it relevant for then-Gen X girls in cities, suburbs and rural parts. As an author, lecturer, mentor and consultant, Hesselbein’s language and messages were accessible and relatable, to men and women. But its clear she framed her thinking from a woman’s perspective as caregiver, mother and nurturer. 

She was more than a leadership icon, which I think has more to do with self-promotion than being an achiever. She was a leader’s leader, Hesselbein and her many wise words will also stick with me. 

Words from Frances Hesselbein

Carry a big basket. In other words, be open to new ideas, different partners and new practices, and have a willingness to dump out the old and irrelevant to make room for new approaches.

When you see a road block or challenge as an opportunity, it is amazing how you are already halfway there.

RIP, good woman! 

If a student in your life needs to study an unsung leader and mentor, please suggest France. Her legacy deserves to be shared and understood. Learn more about her here: https://chiefexecutive.net/frances-hesselbein-renowned-longtime-leader-of-girl-scouts-dead-at-107-her-final-advice-to-ceos-focus-on-how-to-be/