Young men, of course, don't want to be guided by old back…
“Young men, of course, don't want to be guided by old back numbers, but at the same time I know that in my own case I gained a lot by studying the characters of the chiefs under whom I served from time to time. Lord Wolseley, for instance, said: "Use your common sense rather than book instructions."”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Practical experience and common sense often outweigh rigid instructions; learning from mentors' real actions is valuable.
In simple terms: Learn from leaders' actions, not just books.
Key Takeaway
Apply common sense over strict rules.
Themes
leadership
experience
common sense
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
historical
practical
When to use this quote
- team management
- military training
- personal development
Key Concepts
mentorship
practical wisdom
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you trusted intuition over a manual?
- What lessons did a mentor’s actions teach you?
A Different Perspective
Strict adherence to doctrine can limit innovation.