A leader’s potential is determined by those closest to them.
Only teamwork makes the dream work. Every leader has a support system of people they can rely on – their inner circle.
What the Law of the Inner Circle means
No leader masters all 21 Leadership Laws. That’s why successful leaders have an inner circle of strong people who together make them better than they would be alone.
Not every leader chooses their inner circle strategically. If you surround yourself with people who have no goals, you easily adopt their attitude.
What the Law of the Inner Circle looks like in practice
World champions who sweep their own locker room
After every match, the All Blacks clean their own locker room, a tradition called “Sweeping the Sheds.” Rugby’s most successful team picks players for character, not just talent.
When the winning team becomes the obstacle
The team with which Larry Ellison built Oracle became a brake as the company grew: inefficient processes, resistance to change. Ellison refilled key positions despite tensions and long-standing loyalties.
Lincoln brings his rivals into the cabinet
Abraham Lincoln appointed his political rivals William H. Seward, Salmon P. Chase and Edwin M. Stanton to his cabinet. With humility, humor and listening he won their respect and united big egos to preserve the Union.
What the animation shows
A tight, bright circle orbits the center. It determines how far the outer circles reach.
