The ancient biographer and essayist Plutarch thought deeply about the leadership qualities from the eminent Greeks and Romans he profiled in his famous-and massive-Lives, including politicians and generals such as Pericles, Alexander the fantastic, Julius Caesar, and Mark Antony. Luckily for us, Plutarch distilled what he learned about wise management in a handful of essays, which are filled with important lessons for experienced and aspiring leaders in virtually any field today.

In ‘To an Uneducated Leader,’ about how exactly to Be a Leader: A HISTORICAL Guide to Wise Leadership ‘How to be always a Great Leader,’ and ‘Should a vintage Man Engage in Politics?’ Plutarch explains the characteristics of successful market leaders, from being led by reason and working out self-control to being clear of envy as well as the love of power, illustrating his factors with memorable examples drawn from legendary Greco-Roman lives. He also explains how to train for leadership, persuade and cope with co-workers, manage one’s profession, and much more.

Writing at the height of the Roman Empire, Plutarch suggested that people should pursue positions of leadership only when they are motivated by ‘judgment and reason’-not ‘rashly inspired from the vain quest for glory, a feeling of rivalry, or a lack of other meaningful activities.’ His sensible counsel remains as relevant as ever.