“There are known knowns: the things you know you know. There are known unknowns: the things you know you don’t know. But there are also unknown unknowns: the things you don’t know you don’t know.” - Donald Rumsfeld

Reflecting on all of the uncertainty and challenges of 2020, the above frequently referenced quote from our founder seems to be a particularly apt thought for contemplation.

As we enter this new year, we’ve compiled a list of ten Rumsfeld’s Rules that convey some valuable thoughts for consideration as we dive into 2021. These “rules” touch upon important topics like resilience, courage, collaboration and more and include insights from diverse leaders across many chapters of history. If you haven’t already, be sure to pick up a copy of the full collection of tips on business, leadership, politics and more in our founder’s book, Rumsfeld’s Rules, here.

1. “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present…as our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew.” - Abraham Lincoln

2. “Learn to say ‘I don’t know.’ If used when appropriate, it will be often.” - Donald Rumsfeld

3. “The art of listening is indispensable for the right use of the mind. It is also the most gracious, the most open and the most generous of human habits.” - Attributed to R. Barr, St. John’s College, Maryland

4. “He who cannot change the very fabric of his thought will never be able to change reality.” - Anwar Sadat, former President of Egypt

5. “You never know which twist is the one that will open the jar – just stay with it.” - Tim Russert, Sr., father of famed journalist, Tim Russert

6. “The harder I work, the luckier I am.” Stephen Leacock, renown humorist, educator, lecturer and author

7. “Dogs don’t bark at parked cars.” - Lynne Cheney

8. “Freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it.” - Pericles

9. “Responsibilities abandoned today will return as more acute crises tomorrow.” - President Gerald R. Ford

10. “The most important things in life you cannot see -- civility, justice, courage, peace.” - Unknown