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About this quote

What does it mean?
The greatest leaders stay steady in success and failure, acting strategically and bravely.
In plain terms
Great leaders stay calm and brave no matter what happens.
What can you take from it?
Steadfastness defines true leadership.

Where it applies

  • crisis management
  • career setbacks
  • public service

Putting it to work

  • stay calm under pressure
  • plan retreats
  • lead by example

Questions to consider

  • How do you handle success?
  • What makes a hero?

Another view

Not all great leaders display equal emotional balance.

More from George Washington

  1. The Cincinnatus of the West.

    Permalink to quote #133
  2. George Washington was perhaps the one indispensable man among the founders.

    Permalink to quote #135
  3. Posterity will talk of Washington as the founder of a great empire, when my name shall be lost in the vortex of revolution.

    Permalink to quote #132

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