The best an American can look forward to is the lonely pleasure of one who stands at long last on a chilly and inhospitable mountaintop where few have been before, where few can follow and where few will consent to believe he has been.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Leadership or unique achievement often brings isolation. Few can follow or believe the journey taken.
- In plain terms
- Being a pioneer means standing alone where others cannot or will not follow.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept isolation as part of unique leadership or achievement.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is solitude necessary for vision?
- How do you handle being misunderstood?
Another view
Some leadership styles thrive on collaboration rather than isolation.
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