Most of the good executives do pretty well. Because to be a good executive you have to be strong, and you have to have a simple attribute that people have forgotten about - courage.

John Milius’ quote, "Most of the good executives do pretty well. Because to be a good executive you have to be strong, and you have to have a simple attribute that people have forgotten about - courage," highlights the importance of courage in leadership. Milius argues that while executives are often expected to possess qualities like intelligence, strategy, and skill, one of the most essential attributes is courage. This suggests that effective leaders must be willing to make tough decisions, take risks, and stand by their convictions, even in the face of uncertainty or opposition.

The mention of strength indicates that a good executive cannot be easily swayed by external pressures or internal doubts. Strength here refers not only to physical or mental toughness but also to the resilience and decisiveness needed to lead. Milius points out that many people overlook courage, which he views as a simple yet crucial quality in leadership. Courage in this context is not just about bravery but about having the conviction to act in a principled and bold manner when necessary.

Milius’ perspective on executive leadership is grounded in the belief that without courage, leaders may falter in their decision-making, unsure of how to act when facing difficult challenges. This aligns with his broader understanding of leadership, where courage allows executives to step up and take responsibility, making difficult but necessary decisions. He seems to be critiquing the modern tendency to focus on more complex attributes while underestimating the power of courage as a foundational quality.

The origin of the quote is likely influenced by Milius’ background in film and screenwriting, where he often portrayed characters who embodied strength and bravery. His experiences in the entertainment industry, particularly in writing scripts for films with heroic and complex characters, likely shaped his view that true leadership requires courage. Through this quote, Milius emphasizes that leadership is not just about intellectual capacity but about the inner strength to make bold and sometimes unpopular choices.