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About this quote

What does it mean?
Crises cannot be delayed to fit a schedule.
In plain terms
Emergencies happen when they want, not when planned.
What can you take from it?
Expect the unexpected regardless of planning.

Where it applies

  • executive work
  • emergency response
  • daily life

Putting it to work

  • build buffer time
  • prioritize flexibly
  • expect interruptions

Questions to consider

  • How do you handle unexpected crises?
  • Is your schedule too full?

Another view

Ignoring schedules can lead to burnout.

More from Henry Kissinger

  1. The task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been.

    Permalink to quote #51
  2. To be absolutely certain about something, one must know everything or nothing about it.

    Permalink to quote #53
  3. The statesman's duty is to bridge the gap between his nation's experience and his vision.

    Permalink to quote #50

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