Timing
As I continue to read about Abraham Lincoln, I’m finding traits in him which I’ve previously pinpointed as being interesting characteristics of success.
Today’s insight has been timing.
As I read, Lincoln is making himself known as presidential material by appearing in debate after debate around the country in support of the Republican cause. And yet he has not yet declared that he intends to put himself forward for the nomination.
His strategy is brilliant. He campaigns and makes his name known and yet the other candidates are not yet taking him as a serious candidate; his competition, therefore, is lighter.
But there is something else he seems to be doing that is even more impressive. He is timing his attitude to match the nations. He is taking a moderate position on slavery. While others are talking about abolishment, he is focusing on stopping the spread of slavery into the free states. It is a far less radical view and so is encouraging less severe opposition. At this time, the people are not ready for the more radical viewpoint.
I shall be paying close attention to see how he adapts his views over time. I only have a vague knowledge of what happens after he becomes president, so I have the benefit of a mystery to keep me interested.
Back to the book I go.