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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker claims to direct only when forced to.
In plain terms
I only take charge when I have to defend myself.
What can you take from it?
Leadership often arises from necessity rather than desire.

Where it applies

  • workplace disputes
  • creative control
  • self-defense

Putting it to work

  • navigating conflict
  • justifying authority
  • setting boundaries

Questions to consider

  • When do you step up?
  • Is leadership a burden?

Another view

It may imply the speaker avoids initiative when not threatened.

More from Mel Brooks

  1. If I got a paper cut, that's a tragedy. If you fell down an open manhole and died, that's comedy.

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  2. I'm the only Jew that's made a nickel off of Hitler!

    Permalink to quote #64

  3. I don't believe in this business of being behind, better to be in front.

    Permalink to quote #61

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