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Achieve Quote by Rick Hillier

“You don't achieve anything by stopping at the first sign of difficulty. If we'd stopped after Dieppe in World War II, where would we be right now as a nation? If we'd stopped before Vimy Ridge, we wouldn't have been a nation at all. Yes, you've got to know when to say "stop" as a leader, you sure…” quote by Rick Hillier
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“You don't achieve anything by stopping at the first sign of difficulty. If we'd stopped after Dieppe in World War II, where would we be right now as a nation? If we'd stopped before Vimy Ridge, we wouldn't have been a nation at all. Yes, you've got to know when to say "stop" as a leader, you sure do, but you've also got to know when to push for the final thing that's going to give you the full benefit.”

Rick Hillier

About This Quote

Source Speech: Canadian Forces Leadership Lecture, 2015

Persistence through difficulty is essential; knowing when to stop and when to push determines success.

In simple terms: Keep going despite challenges, but recognize when to pause.

Key Takeaway

Balance perseverance with strategic pauses.

Themes

leadership resilience strategy

Mood

determined thoughtful

Type

motivational strategic

When to use this quote

  • military planning
  • business growth
  • personal development

Key Concepts

War history decision‑making risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should a leader say “stop”?
  • How do you gauge the right moment to push forward?
A Different Perspective

Stopping too early can for opportunities; pushing too far can cause burnout.

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