If you’ve ever wondered how some leaders rise above the noise, make tough decisions, and still command respect, welcome to a masterclass in leadership. Love him or hate him, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has played the political game like a grandmaster, making moves that have left the world watching. And whether you dream of leading a country, a business, or just your chaotic friend group, there’s something you can learn from him.
Here are seven leadership lessons you need to steal from el-Sisi if you want to take charge like a pro.
1. Decisiveness Is Everything
One thing el-Sisi never does? Waffle. Hesitation is the enemy of leadership. Whether it’s making a controversial decision or taking bold action, he owns it. If you spend your life overanalyzing every choice, you’ll get nowhere. Leaders make decisions, fast.
👉 Pro Tip: Struggle with decision-making? Get a decision journal (yes, it’s a thing). Write down your options, pick one, and never look back. Amazon’s best-selling Decision Journal will keep you accountable.
2. Control the Narrative
You don’t have to be a political leader to understand this, your personal brand is everything. Sisi understands that perception is power. Whether you’re at work, on social media, or in your social circles, you set the narrative. If you don’t, someone else will do it for you (and you might not like the results).
3. Strength in Public, Strategy in Private
A true leader doesn’t air their struggles. El-Sisi projects confidence, even in tough times. But behind the scenes? Every move is calculated. Never let them see you sweat, handle doubts and fears in private, and show strength in public.
👉 Pro Tip: Need a confidence boost? A power pose in front of the mirror every morning works wonders. (And if that fails, check out the best-selling book “Presence” by Amy Cuddy”, it’s a game changer.)
4. Surround Yourself with the Right People
No leader succeeds alone. Sisi has built a powerful network that reinforces his leadership. If your friends drag you down, if your team doesn’t support your vision, it’s time to make some cuts. Your circle should elevate you, not drain you.
5. Tough Decisions Will Make You Unpopular, Do It Anyway
Not every leadership move will win applause. Some decisions will make people uncomfortable. El-Sisi has faced criticism, but leaders don’t chase approval, they chase results. If you’re too focused on being liked, you’ll never make the hard calls.
👉 Reality Check: If you’re always saying yes to people, you’re saying no to yourself. Set boundaries. (Bonus: Check out “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson to master this skill.)
6. Adapt or Get Left Behind
El-Sisi has adapted to changing political landscapes, proving that stagnation is death. If you’re stuck in old ways, unwilling to learn, or refusing to evolve, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Leaders stay ahead by embracing change.
👉 Challenge: Try something completely out of your comfort zone this week. Change your routine. Learn a new skill. Prove to yourself that you can evolve.
7. Power Is Taken, Not Given
No one hands you leadership. You step up and take it. Whether it’s leading a project, asking for a promotion, or making bold moves in life, you have to claim your power. The world respects those who assert themselves.
👉 Quick Hack: Start small. Take the lead on a group project. Speak up in meetings. Get comfortable with stepping into leadership roles before you’re “ready.”
Final Thought: Will You Step Up?
El-Sisi’s leadership style isn’t for the faint-hearted, but the core lessons apply to anyone who wants to take control of their life. Decide. Lead. Adapt. Own your power.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned from someone powerful? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 👇