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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lincoln advises combining caution with determined action and constant watchfulness to achieve victory.
In plain terms
Be careful but also energetic and alert to win.
What can you take from it?
Vigilance and energy are needed alongside caution to succeed.

Where it applies

  • planning projects
  • managing teams

Putting it to work

  • leading crises
  • balancing risk and action

Questions to consider

  • How do you balance caution and speed?
  • What is the key to victory?

Another view

It may undervalue the cost of constant vigilance.

More from Abraham Lincoln

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