The Hiller Instinct: Lessons for Obama

Everyone can think of their own caption for this picture...Mine is simply 'live and learn.'

President George W. Bush

"And to the extent that we can...We look forward to sharing our experiences with you."

What Jimmy Carter can teach Obama is how not to win a second term.

President Jimmy Carter, July 15, 1979

"It's clear that the true problems of our nation are much deeper--deeper than gasoline lines or energy shortages, deeper even than inflation or recession."

Carter is most remembered for his 'malaise speech' in which he talked about America's crisis of confidence.

The lesson for Obama from Carter: Be optimistic! If a president sounds like he's giving up, the people will give up on him.

President George H. W. Bush, August 18, 1988

"Read my lips, no new taxes."

The biggest mistake the first president Bush made was breaking the promise that helped win him the White House.

The lesson for Obama from this Bush is clear: Keep your word. We listen and remember.

President Bill Clinton, January 26, 1998

"I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky."

Bill Clinton's denial of his affair with a White House intern led to his impeachment and political paralysis in Washington.

Obama's lesson from Clinton: Tell the truth. Lying is always worse.

President George W. Bush, September 17, 2002

"There's an old saying in Tennessee - I know it's in Texas, probably in Tennessee - that says, fool me once, shame on - shame on you. Fool me - you can't get fooled again."

And a final lesson for Barack Obama from the president he's about to replace: Think before speaking...Because every word you say matters.

President-elect Barack Obama

"And for me to have the opportunity to get advice, good council and fellowship with these individuals is extraordinary."

What's extraordinary to me are all the problems piling up for the president-elect. Barack Obama is going to need a lot more than good advice to succeed. At the very least, he's going to need good luck, too.

I'm Andy Hiller, and that's my instinct.

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