By most political and worldly standards, Catherine II was a successful monarch. She had her share of enemies and detractors, and there were those who questioned her legitimacy as the ruler of Russia. Her moral and ethical choices might have raised some eyebrows.  However, in diplomacy, border expansion, economic development, arts, and culture, her accomplishments earned her the title, "The Great."

This quote attributed to her is telling, "I praise loudly; I blame softly."

The most cursory reading of history makes it evident that even absolute despots cannot hold absolute power without the support of others. And even if a ruler is able to maintain a position, without leadership skills, people will be led nowhere.

You can occupy a throne and accomplish nothing.

If Catherine was being honest, this philosophy of leadership is one of the most vital skills any person of influence can develop.

Praise must be over-the-top. When it is public, specific, clear, and generous, loyalty is earned. The people who are praise will follow their leader anywhere. Others will follow as well in hopes of earning such praise.

To blame softly is to also be clear, direct, and specific, but private. It is to keep the circle of criticism as small as possible and make corrections quickly, gently, and graciously. The person who blames softly knows that no loyalty is won through humiliation and that a person who can save face can develop into a valuable leader as well.

We must not destroy people in the process of making them better.

So, Catherine the Great was on to something. If we make a big deal of praise and handle criticism forthrightly and discreetly, we will develop the kind of leadership that can help us accomplish great goals.