You can always amend a big plan, but you can never expand…
“You can always amend a big plan, but you can never expand a little one. I don't believe in little plans. I believe in plans big enough to meet a situation which we can't possibly foresee now.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Large, flexible plans accommodate unforeseen challenges; small plans lack capacity to adapt.
In simple terms: Big plans can adjust; small plans cannot.
Key Takeaway
Think big and stay adaptable.
Themes
planning
flexibility
risk management
Mood
thoughtful
strategic
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- personal goal setting
- project management
- emergency response
Key Concepts
strategic foresight
contingency planning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you design a plan that remains flexible?
- What risks do you face with overly detailed short‑term plans?
A Different Perspective
Small plans may be insufficient for complex, unpredictable situations.