When people refer to leaders as having great strength, what do they mean? To me it means they can withstand a lot of pressure and that they possess influence and power.  It's not easy to have such strength consistently. You have to have great control over your thoughts and beliefs. You have to have a good work-life balance staying physically and mentally healthy. You also have to have an attitude that includes persistence to stay focused and continue with plans and also the courage to make changes and tough decisions. It reminds me of the Serenity Prayer - "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

How does this help with success? If you possess this strength or work on having this strength you definitely have an edge over many others. It's easy (or easier) to lead when things are going well, it's much harder to stand tall and lead your team through tough times. When the economy is soft and consumers are reluctant to spend or when you are just about to launch your 'next new product' only to find that your competitor has just beaten you to market. It takes a great deal of strength to stay positive; set a direction for your team; make the tough decisions and keep your team motivated.

Obstacles and disappointments are as inevitable in business as they are in life, we could do worse then working on being strong.

"Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragement, and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak." ~ Thomas Carlyle