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I should not interfere with this natural march of history. To hold onto power for another half-year, when the country has a strong man who is worthy of being president and with whom practically every Russian today ties his hopes for the future? Why should I interfere with him? Why wait still another half-year? No, that's not for me! It's simply not in my character!

Boris Yeltsin#17

LeadershipPowerResignationCharacterRussia

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About this quote

What does it mean?
Yeltsin argues that stepping aside for a stronger successor benefits the country more than clinging to power briefly. He emphasizes character and national interest over personal tenure.
In plain terms
He believes letting a better leader take over now is more important than holding power for a short time.
What can you take from it?
Prioritize national progress over personal political survival.

Where it applies

  • political resignation
  • leadership transfer
  • succession planning

Putting it to work

  • voluntary resignation
  • successor selection

Questions to consider

  • When is it right to step down for the greater good?
  • How do you define a worthy successor?

Another view

Assuming a successor is truly worthy can be subjective and risky.

More from Boris Yeltsin

  1. Today I am turning to you for the last time with New Year's greetings. But that's not all. Today I am turning to you for the last time as president of Russia. …

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  2. Today, on this day that is so extraordinarily important for me, I want to say just a few more personal words than usual. I want to ask for your forgiveness. Fo…

    Permalink to quote #18

  3. I am convinced that the moment is coming when, with its message of eternal, universal values, it will come to the aid of our society. For in these words: 'Thou…

    Permalink to quote #15

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