In the army we are drilled into execution and then…
“In the army we are drilled into execution and then supervision, to make sure everything goes the way you planned it. But there is another thing that we do in the military, that I think perhaps isn't done enough in corporate life: As soon as you have made that decision, you start on the contingency planning. Because there is, as we like to say, a thinking, breathing enemy out there, who is not going to let you do just what you want.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Military planning includes contingency for unpredictable threats, a practice lacking in business
In simple terms: Prepare for unexpected challenges through contingency planning
Key Takeaway
Always have a backup plan for unforeseen obstacles
Themes
strategy
military
contingency
risk management
Mood
strategic
pragmatic
Type
military
business
When to use this quote
- project management
- business strategy
- crisis response
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
leadership
decision making
organizational resilience
planning
Questions to Reflect On
- How much contingency is too much?
- When should flexibility override strict plans?
A Different Perspective
Over‑planning can stifle agility and innovation