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Before his election in 1976, Jimmy Carter had already distinguished himself in diverse fields: as a naval officer, farmer, businessman, Georgia state senator and governor, and church leader. Coming in the wake of Watergate, President Carter's election was based in part on his call for a return to honesty and integrity in government. In this interview - the fourth in HBR's ongoing series with individuals who led not a company but a country - former president Jimmy Carter discusses his views on leadership and addresses issues including: The prospect of failure. A measure of the faith that leaders have in themselves and in their causes is their willingness to attempt difficult things, even if they face failure. Moral and ethical standards. 'Any leader who deviates from compliance with the law, or compliance with the principles of a corporation, sends devastating waves of damage throughout the organization'. History. Understanding what has gone on before provides guidance for handling current challenges and avoid avoiding old mistakes. Recognizing and dealing with limits. Limits are taken for granted is a part of business and must be accepted as a reasonable part of public leadership as well. 'Dealing with limitations wisely and successfully is a sign of greatness'. Using influence and power to solve problems, rather than imposing will on others. 'We don't have to be a bully in the world just because we are the strongest'.