If in doubt, don't. If still in doubt, do what's right.

Many people around the President have sizeable egos before entering government, some with good reason. Their new positions will do little to moderate their egos.

If it were a fact, it wouldn't be called intelligence.

Don't necessarily avoid sharp edges. Occasionally they are necessary to leadership.

In our system leadership is by consent, not command. To lead a President must persuade. Personal contacts and experiences help shape his thinking. They can be critical to his persuasiveness and thus to his leadership.

Presidential leadership needn't always cost money. Look for low- and no-cost options. They can be surprisingly effective.