Once he called upon General McClellan, and the President went over to the General's house - a process which I as-sure you has been reversed long since - and General McClellan decided he did not want to see the President, and went to bed. Lincoln's friends criticized him severely for allowing a mere General to treat him that way. And he said, 'All I want out of General McClellan is a victory, and if to hold his horse will bring it, I will gladly hold his horse.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Lincoln prioritizes winning the war over his own pride or status when dealing with General McClellan.
- In plain terms
- He would do anything to get a victory even if it meant serving a general.
- What can you take from it?
- Goals matter more than personal ego.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is ego a barrier?
- How do you prioritize goals over pride?
Another view
This approach might encourage insubordination if overused.
More from Abraham Lincoln
(Lincoln had a) humane interest in the welfare of my whole race.
Permalink to quote #149 Abraham Lincoln had a moral elevation most rare in a statesman, or indeed in any man.
Permalink to quote #151 In his company I was never in any way reminded of my humble origin, or of my unpopular colour.
Permalink to quote #148
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