Today marks President’s Day, also known as George Washington’s birthday. While you may be enjoying a day off courtesy of our first president, you can actually gain a great deal from his legacy — namely, some important leadership lessons.

Being a leader, especially in your first go-round, is no easy feat. You’ll always have critics. You may have someone who thinks they can do it better than you. It’s hard to know if you’re ever good enough. However, like Washington, if you strive to do good, stick to your principles, and work really hard to be a great leader, good results will be bound to come your way.

In honor of President’s Day, here are some leadership lessons any professional can learn from George Washington:

Ah, Valentine’s Day. A day to show your affection for your loved ones. A day to make a good impression on that special someone. A time to pull out all the fireworks, chocolates, and showstoppers to illustrate how you really feel. While Valentine’s Day is a billion dollar industry, the gift you receive can be more than candy, quirky cards, and long-stemmed roses. You can actually be gifted with some power interview lessons.

The job search process and Valentine’s Day aren’t as far-fetched in comparison as you may believe. When you look at it from an overarching perspective, the way you may court a partner is the way you can court an employer, particular during and after a job interview.

The Olympic opening ceremony is just around the corner! While some of the games have already begun, preparations are well underway for the main event. Athletes from around the globe are perfecting their crafts, whether they’re figure skaters, snowboarders, or bobsledders.

So what career lessons can all professionals learn from one of the oldest events in the world?

The motto of the Olympics is Citius, Altius, Fortius, which is Latin for “Faster, Higher, Stronger.” This message, along with the stories of Olympians, can really teach you a thing or two about your career, whether you’re looking for a new job or want to improve your current situation.

Looking for a new job in 2014? Better have an action plan!

According to the latest CareerBuilder survey, one in five workers plan to make a career transition in 2014. The survey indicates this is due to varying factors, including the following:

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a pioneer for civil rights and a leader in activism. While his life was cut short, he is still viewed as one of the most influential players in U.S. history.

You may not realize it, but there’s a lot to learn from Martin Luther King, Jr. as it relates to your career. Even though he faced tons of challenges and had to walk through the lines of fire, Martin Luther King, Jr. can still provide you with some key career insights.

If you want to advance yourself professionally, there’s no one better to look up to than King. So, what are some career lessons you can learn from him? Check them out below:

Job loss is never a great situation, especially now. While the new year is a time of hope, your company may have downsized, completed a merger, or your skills may not be needed anymore. Whatever the reason, getting handed a pink slip isn’t ideal — and it can be confusing time.

Assuming your employer has given you ample notification, it’s time to act fast. The winter job search waits for no one, so put down that ice cream and turn off that sad music. You’ve got a job to find!

Here are four things to do immediately to get your job search started:

Think of your job search as a full-on sales pitch: You have the chance to sell your skills, your expertise, and your accomplishments to just about anyone. But, can you do it anywhere, too?

While old relatives, co-workers, or acquaintances may know where you’re living or your hobbies, they may not know details about your career and job search. However, it is possible to sell your job search to just about anyone, anywhere. Take these opportunities, for example:

Think of the new year as your chance to start fresh. A time to switch up your goals, organize your life a little better, and commit to doing things more efficiently. Apart from going to the gym more or cleaning up your dirty desk, it’s also the time to commit to some job search resolutions in 2014.

Understandably, 2013 may have been tough in terms of the job search. Studies show job seekers remain pessimistic about the job search, and it’s clear to see why: With unresponsive employers, competition through the roof, and a hidden job market, no wonder things seem bleak.

You’ve tirelessly tinkered away on your resume and cover letter. You’ve read up on the organization. You’ve sent out those winter job search applications. There’s just one problem: All you’ve got in response is, well, nothing. Nada. Crickets.

While you may have read that the first quarter of the year is one of the busiest for hiring, what can you do if you’re part of the 75 percent of job seekers who’ve applied to jobs using various avenues and didn’t hear back?

Can you believe 2014 is just around the corner? While you may be getting ready to toast to the new year, before the clock strikes 12, you should be evaluating your job search and making some necessary tweaks.

I know what you’re thinking. The end of the year isn’t for business, it’s for fun. Though this is most certainly true, it’s also a time for reflection, growth, and analyzing your professional journey. Understanding what’s worked this year and what needs to be improved is going to take your job search to the next level.

With that in mind, take control of your job search in 2014 by adjusting a few elements before years’ end: