Retired SecDefense and CIA Director Robert Gates on admirable presidential and leadership traits. (Today on Morning Joe, MSNBC)

Obama: making tough decisions with little leadership background.

Bush: courage in taking on serious problems.

Bush the elder: ability to bring people together in large coalitions

Advice/Thoughts:
-Listen to and empower your people.
-Weakness of the White House developing and implementing strategy.
-Presidents need people around him that push back.
-Best presidential leaders: Washington, Lincoln, both Roosevelts, Truman, Eisenhower, Reagan.

Check out his new book
http://www.amazon.com/Passion-Leadership-Lessons-Change-Service/dp/030795949X