I have not permitted myself, gentlemen, to conclude that I…
“I have not permitted myself, gentlemen, to conclude that I am the best man in the country; but I am reminded, in this connection, of a story of an old Dutch farmer, who remarked to a companion once that "it was not best to swap horses when crossing streams."”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He warns against changing strategies at critical moments, using a farmer’s tale about not swapping horses while crossing streams.
In simple terms: Don’t change plans during crucial times.
Key Takeaway
Stay steady when stakes are high.
Themes
caution
strategy
decisionmaking
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- personal crises
- project milestones
- political campaigns
Key Concepts
Risk management
timing
adaptability
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you faced a critical decision?
- What risks arise from abrupt changes?
A Different Perspective
Changing tactics mid‑stream can cause loss of control.