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About this quote

What does it mean?
When uncertain, take initiative to find a target rather than waiting.
In plain terms
If you have no orders, find a task and do it.
What can you take from it?
Take initiative when direction is missing.

Where it applies

  • mission unclear
  • wartime
  • workplace

Putting it to work

  • seek tasks
  • act independently
  • solve problems

Questions to consider

  • What can you do without orders?
  • Is in always better than waiting?

Another view

Action without direction can lead to wasted effort or danger.

More from Erwin Rommel

  1. I would be rather more happy had he given me one more division.

    Permalink to quote #9
  2. One must not judge everyone in the world by his qualities as a soldier: otherwise we should have no civilization.

    Permalink to quote #11
  3. Don't fight a battle if you don't gain anything by winning.

    Permalink to quote #8

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