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 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.”
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.
Assign responsibility early.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military training
- corporate mentorship
- student projects
- volunteer coordination
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does early responsibility shape confidence?
- What support helps when pressure is high?
Not all individuals thrive under early pressure; support is needed.