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About this quote

What does it mean?
Starting a conflict or challenge decisively provides a significant advantage in the overall outcome.
In plain terms
Acting first gives you an edge.
What can you take from it?
Initiative wins half the struggle.

Where it applies

  • negotiations
  • competitions
  • crisis management

Putting it to work

  • act decisively
  • set the pace
  • claim space

Questions to consider

  • Does speed always win?
  • When is timing key?

Another view

Starting first does not guarantee winning.

More from Oliver Goldsmith

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  2. We are the boys That fear no noise Where the thundering cannons roar.

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  3. I'll be with you in the squeezing of a lemon.

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