Achievement Quote by Charles Kettering
“When I was research head of General Motors and wanted a problem solved, I'd place a table outside the meeting room with a sign: "Leave slide rules here." If I didn't do that, I'd find someone reaching for his slide rule. Then he'd be on his feet saying, "Boss, you can't do it."”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Internal GM meeting anecdote, 1950s
Leaders can expose hidden resistance by removing tools that enable avoidance, forcing honest engagement with challenges.
In simple terms: Removing tools reveals true obstacles.
Key Takeaway
Identify and eliminate shortcuts that hide problems.
Themes
leadership
problem solving
communication
Mood
reflective
strategic
Type
anecdotal
leadership
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- project planning
- process improvement
Key Concepts
organizational behavior
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What tools in your work hide real issues?
- How can you encourage openness without blame?
A Different Perspective
Some may feel threatened and become defensive.
