Its amazing what you can accomplish if you dont care who gets the credit.     Harry S Truman

President Truman had decided that Secretary of State, General George Marshalls name should be attached to his plan for massive European relief following World War II. Many in the White House objected, believing instead that the President should get credit for the initiative. Truman, however, wisely recognized that a reluctant Congress would have a much harder time voting down a plan that carried the name of one of Americas greatest wartime heroes. Truman was right and the Marshall Plan provided the foundation for Europes spectacular post war recovery.

Too often insecure leaders make the mistake of believing that every success has to have their name attached. Theyve forgotten that effective leaders make things happen usually by promoting the successful efforts of others. When those successes occur, the best leaders focus the credit on those actually doing the work. This kind of feedback is generative, building confidence and producing even more spectacular results in the future.

Dont worry, people wont forget whos responsible for creating the environment that fostered success and the team wont forget who helped them succeed.