Lessons from the Leaders: Balancing Work, Love, and Play

What makes a fulfilling life? Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin explores this question through the lives of American presidents Abraham Lincoln and Lyndon B. Johnson, drawing insightful lessons applicable to us all. She emphasizes the importance of balancing work, love, and play, echoing the teachings of psychologist Erik Erikson.

The Three Pillars of a Fulfilling Life

Erik Erikson believed that the richest lives achieve a balance between three key areas:

• Work: Finding purpose and accomplishment.
• Love: Nurturing relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
• Play: Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

Neglecting any of these areas can lead to sadness in later life, while dedicating oneself to all three fosters both achievement and serenity.

Abraham Lincoln: Ambition with Integrity

Lincoln's life exemplifies the power of fierce ambition when coupled with a desire to make a positive impact. His ambition wasn't merely for power or fame, but to leave the world a better place. Overcoming a difficult childhood and limited schooling, Lincoln immersed himself in books, finding solace and inspiration in literature.

"There is no frigate like a book to take us lands away." - Emily Dickinson

Despite facing numerous losses, including the deaths of his mother, sister, and first love, Lincoln channeled his grief into a worthy ambition. This ambition fueled his political career, carrying him through depression and setbacks. He ultimately achieved the presidency, even appointing his rivals to his cabinet, demonstrating his commitment to the greater good.

Lincoln's Strengths:

• Empathy and understanding of others' perspectives.
• Ability to repair injured feelings and foster harmony.
• Willingness to share credit and take responsibility for failures.
• Unwavering convictions expressed through relatable language and storytelling.

Lincoln's integrity and moral fiber, as Leo Tolstoy observed, made him a legendary figure, admired even by those in the most remote corners of the world.

Lyndon B. Johnson: The Peril of Imbalance

In contrast to Lincoln, Lyndon B. Johnson's life illustrates the consequences of neglecting love and play in pursuit of work and power. In his later years, Johnson, despite his political achievements, lacked the emotional resources to cope with life after the presidency.

He had achieved significant legislative victories, including civil rights laws and Medicare, but the Vietnam War overshadowed his accomplishments. Years of focusing solely on work left him unable to find solace in family, recreation, or hobbies. This imbalance contributed to his declining health and eventual death.

Johnson himself lamented not spending more time with his family, a poignant reminder of the importance of nurturing relationships alongside professional pursuits.

The Importance of Play

Even play requires commitment and energy. For Lincoln, this meant attending the theater, enjoying humor, and sharing stories. These activities provided relaxation and replenishment, helping him navigate the challenges of his presidency.

One of his favorite stories was about Ethan Allen. As Lincoln told the story, Mr. Allen went to Britain after the war and the British people were still upset about losing the revolution so they decided to embarrass him a little bit by putting a huge picture of General Washington in the only ouse where he'd have to encounter it. They figured he'd be upset about the indignity of George Washington being in an ous but he came out of the ouse not upset at all and so they said well did you see George Washington there oh yes he said perfectly appropriate place for him what do you mean they said well he said there's nothing to make an Englishman faster than the sight of General George Washington.

Finding Your Balance

Doris Kearns Goodwin shares her own love of baseball as a form of play, a passion instilled by her father. This connection to baseball provides her with joy and a sense of continuity, linking her to past generations.

By learning from the lives of these presidents, we can strive to create our own balanced lives, filled with purpose, love, and joy. Let us remember the importance of telling and retelling the stories of those who have come before us, keeping their memories alive and learning from their experiences.