THE PRESIDENT WHO NEVER SMILED: AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM GEORGE WASHINGTON
- Christopher Adams
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 22
George Washington, America’s first president, never smiled—because he was ashamed of his painful, disfiguring dentures. Yet, in spite of his discomfort and insecurities, he led with courage and conviction. This post explores how real leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up anyway.
He was so self-conscious that he refused to smile.
He didn’t have any teeth.
And because of that, he never smiled.
He was ashamed of the way he looked.
He lived in constant pain due to the dentures he wore. His gums were always raw—sometimes bloody.
Soft foods were his preference. Fish and soups were his favorites.
As a boy, he used his teeth to crack walnuts. That didn’t help.
Genetics didn’t help either. His family wasn’t known for strong teeth. And to be honest, he didn’t practice great dental hygiene.
When he became President, he had a new set of dentures made. By then, he had only one real tooth remaining.
He turned to a dentist named Dr. Greenwood.
Greenwood crafted a set of dentures using hippopotamus ivory, gold wires, and brass screws for the base and framework.
To complete the set, Greenwood used real human teeth—removed from patients. The color was brownish, giving the impression they were made of wood.
This metal-laced contraption disfigured his face and caused constant pain.
And still, he never smiled.
America’s first President—the great general of the American Revolutionary War—never smiled because he was ashamed of how he looked.
Even George Washington had insecurities and flaws. And still, he led. These authentic leadership lessons remind us that people don’t need perfect leaders—they need leaders who show up, flaws and all.
So why am I telling you this?
Because Washington still led.
He helped form a nation.
He warned us against political parties.
He wasn’t perfect. Far from it. He had massive flaws.
But he still led. In spite of his shame and discomfort, he led.
What’s holding you back?
What’s your insecurity?
What’s one thing you try to hide?
Stop hiding it.
Walking slowly with a limp is more inspiring than running perfectly.
People need hope that they can achieve great goals—and they get that hope when they see leaders move forward in spite of their flaws.
Be authentic.
People see what you try to hide.
Go for the finish line anyway.
Lead boldly.
Be like George.
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