Fools Not Suffering Fools


David Brooks gets it just right. I too hate the expression that somebody "doesn't suffer fools gladly." This trite phrase has always struck me as a rationalization for people in leadership positions who act like horse's asses. Obviously, leaders should hire and promote employees who are not fools. But when fools do appear, and they most certainly will, the leader must be as fair and respectful as he or she is tough and firm. It's not only the right thing to do, but everyone else is watching, too.