Can do Quote by Max De Pree
“A short term view will lead to a partial and perhaps twisted view of the whole picture. A crucial element may be missing. We may not be running the entire race. A friend of mine described a colleague as great at running the "ninety-five yard dash." That is a distinction I can do without. Lacking the last five yards makes the first ninety-five pointless. In fact, serious runners thing of it as a 110 yard dash so that no one will best them in the last few yards. You've got to think beyond the whole.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leadership and the One Minute Manager, 1985
Focusing on short-term metrics can obscure critical missing pieces, leading to incomplete understanding and poor decisions.
In simple terms: Short-term focus blinds you to the whole picture.
Key Takeaway
Consider the full scope before acting.
Themes
leadership
strategic thinking
holistic view
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
advisory
strategic
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- project management
- personal goals
- team leadership
Key Concepts
systems thinking
missing data
long-term planning
Questions to Reflect On
- What essential element might you be overlooking?
- How can you ensure you see the whole picture?
A Different Perspective
Neglecting details can cause blind spots later.
