If you were semi-conscious in the 1980’s, then you probably know Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was born in Austria in 1947 and became a world famous bodybuilder at the age of 20. His great success in bodybuilding eventually introduced him to acting. After many box office gems, Arnold became a “huge” Hollywood action movie star. What you may not know, is that he is also a successful businessman, generous philanthropist and the current Governor of California.
It takes a very determined and intelligent man to accomplish what Arnold has done. While continuing to pursue his acting and bodybuilding career, Arnold earned a college degree from the University of Wisconsin and became a U.S. citizen. A few years later, he married a journalist named Maria Shriver. Both Maria and Arnold committed their time, energy and personal finances to charities worldwide. He especially liked the Special Olympics and physical fitness. This led him to become Chair of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports in 1990. In this position, Arnold traveled to all 50 states and recognized the overwhelming need for more after-school alternatives.
Arnold’s efforts did not stop at physical fitness. Since he took office, Governor Schwarzenegger has worked to reform California's fiscal policies, create a better business environment, reduce burdens on employment, boost exports and stimulate job growth. In addition, he has been California's most productive promoter. He spends a great deal of time traveling across the country and around the world promoting California-grown products and cutting-edge technologies. Plus, he has not forgotten his roots. By using his background as a globally recognized athlete, Governor Schwarzenegger has made restoring California’s health and fitness a top priority.
Retrieved on February 10, 2009
http://gov.ca.gov/about/arnold
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I like your leader of choice. He is a competitor, entertainer, and leader. He is the unlikely hero who jolted California into climate change leadership and is also a former bodybuilder and action movie hero. I admire him, for he is now so incredibly focused, serious, and an increasingly savvy politician. Schwarzenegger has turned out to be a surprisingly effective governor. The governor’s desire to simultaneously achieve a healthy environment and economy in the state of California has resonated well with his followers.
ReplyDeleteI certainly don't contend that Schwarzenegger epitomizes everything virtuous, but I do admire him nevertheless. He has transformed himself in remarkable ways and gotten over some major hurdles in his life.
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ReplyDeleteHi Chuck,
ReplyDeleteI agree that Arnold Schwarzenegger displays the characteristics of a good leader. Arnold used his fame from acting to take a leadership position in government, when others in his position have squandered it away. Both Arnold and Sam believed in a vision. Arnold’s crusade for physical fitness and after-school activities had him traveling all across the country, just like Sam Walton’s vision to make the consumer’s life easier had him visiting stores across the nation.
It is nice to see an icon like Arnold helping lead our country. After Sam Walton was named the richest man in America by Forbes in 1985, he too became an icon. When he would visit his stores, the employees felt even more empowered. Fame and fortune can come with being a good leader. How a leader chooses to use that fame and fortune is what probably helped them get in the position.
Arnold Schwarzenegger possesses many qualities that have made him a good leader. His drive and determination to follow through with a vision were evident at a young age. From becoming a body builder at a young age to his current position as governor of California, Arnold has proven that hard work can lead to great success. Arnold has shown success and talent in many different areas of his life, but his strong-willed personality and determination has never wavered. It is in this way that he is like my leader, Walt Disney. No matter what Walt was doing in his life, he was determined to always to his best. From delivering newspapers, to creating animated films, Disney put forth his best effort at everything he did. I see this same quality in Arnold Schwarzenegger's work.
ReplyDeleteI find it so interesting that you chose Arnold Schwarzenegger. He is a great person to choose! I find that his determination is admirable. Although he was not born in America he educated himself in our politics and rose from a so so actor to the Governor of a state. He does not let others tell him that things cannot be done. I also think that he aspires to be President. Although the law currently states that he cannot become President due to his birthplace, I still feel that he keeps that door open hoping that maybe the law may change. He does not let barriers close doors for him. He always keeps his future options open.
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