Accounts Quote by Carl von Clausewitz
“We must, therefore, be confident that the general measures we have adopted will produce the results we expect. most important in this connection is the trust which we must have in our lieutenants. consequently, it is important to choose men on whom we can rely and to put aside all other considerations. if we have made appropriate preparations, taking into account all possible misfortunes, so that we shall not be lost immediately if they occur, we must boldly advance into the shadows of uncertainty.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: On War, Book 1, 1832
Leaders must trust capable subordinates and prepare for setbacks, enabling bold action despite uncertainty.
In simple terms: Trust reliable aides and plan for risks before acting.
Key Takeaway
Prepare, trust, act boldly.
Themes
leadership
trust
risk management
strategy
preparation
Mood
determined
cautious
Type
strategic
practical
When to use this quote
- military campaigns
- business projects
- emergency response
- political negotiations
Key Concepts
military theory
decision making
contingency planning
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you evaluate the reliability of your team?
- What contingencies are essential before proceeding?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence in subordinates can lead to failure if risks are underestimated.
![“Rather than comparing [war] to art we could more accurately compare it to commerce, which is also a conflict of human interests and activities; and it is still closer to politics, which in turn may be considered as a kind of commerce on a larger scale.” quote by Carl von Clausewitz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c35/carl-von-clausewitz-2060_activity_rather-than-comparing-war-to-art-we-coul_21236.jpg)
