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Deck Quote by Walter Kiechel

“One practical point many experts will attest to is that if you want to develop someone as a leader, give them lots of responsibility early in their lives and careers. The military does that. I can remember being officer of the deck on a destroyer, on watch and in charge at two in the morning as we…” quote by Walter Kiechel
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“One practical point many experts will attest to is that if you want to develop someone as a leader, give them lots of responsibility early in their lives and careers. The military does that. I can remember being officer of the deck on a destroyer, on watch and in charge at two in the morning as we plowed through the Mediterranean while 300 shipmates slept below decks. I was 25 at the time. I don't know how much of a leader I ever became, but the experience certainly brought home to me a sense of responsibility for others.”

Walter Kiechel

About This Quote

Source Book: The Lords of Strategy, Walter Kiechel, 2009

Giving early responsibility builds leadership skills and a sense of accountability.

In simple terms: Early responsibility creates leaders.

Key Takeaway

Assign responsibility early.

Themes

leadership responsibility development

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

advice experience

When to use this quote

  • military training
  • corporate mentorship
  • student projects
  • volunteer coordination

Key Concepts

experiential learning accountability

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does early responsibility shape confidence?
  • What support helps when pressure is high?
A Different Perspective

Not all individuals thrive under early pressure; support is needed.

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