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About this quote

What does it mean?
Nelson argues that avoiding risk would have prevented his success and rise to nobility.
In plain terms
Taking risks leads to success but could also end your career.
What can you take from it?
Growth requires accepting the possibility of failure.

Where it applies

  • career advancement
  • military command
  • entrepreneurship

Putting it to work

  • risk assessment
  • leadership training
  • motivation

Questions to consider

  • What risks define your career?
  • Is failure worth the reward?

Another view

Risking ships endangers lives beyond just career consequences.

More from Horatio Nelson

  1. If a man consults whether he is to fight, when he has the power in his own hands, it is certain that his opinion is against fighting.

    Permalink to quote #13
  2. Victory or Westminister Abbey.

    Permalink to quote #15
  3. I have only one eye,- I have a right to be blind sometimes . . . I really do not see the signal!

    Permalink to quote #12

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