What AEC professionals can learn from Winston Churchill

Recently, I gave a talk to some 75 architects under the title “Winston Churchill and You: Lessons from the Life of the Greatest Statesman of the 20th Century.” My talk was based on 10 points culled from the excellent short biography “Churchill,” by Paul Johnson. Here are 10 Lessons from the life of Winston Churchill that all members of the Building Team—architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners—can benefit from. In each case, I have indicated how these precepts can be applied to your work as design and construction professionals:
Oct. 17, 2011

Recently, I gave a talk to some 75 architects under the title “Winston Churchill and You: Lessons from the Life of the Greatest Statesman of the 20th Century.”

My talk was based on 10 points culled from the excellent short biography “Churchill,” by Paul Johnson.

Here are 10 Lessons from the life of Winston Churchill that all members of the Building Team—architects, engineers, contractors, and building owners—can benefit from. In each case, I have indicated how these precepts can be applied to your work as design and construction professionals:

  1. Turn desperation into opportunity.
  2. Set an example of furious and productive activity.
  3. Make use of oratory and symbolism.
  4. Appreciate the role of technology.
  5. Seek allies.
  6. Always aim high.
  7. Don’t let mistakes get you down.
  8. Don’t waste time placing blame.
  9. Make time for joy and celebration.
  10. Get your priorities - and timing - right

To get the full story, go to: www.BDCnetwork.com/Churchill. BD+C

About the Author

Rob Cassidy

Robert Cassidy is Executive Editor of Building Design+Construction and the Editor of Multifamily Design+Construction. A city planner, he is the author of several books, including “Livable Cities,” and was a co-founder of the Friends of the Chicago River.

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