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About this quote

What does it mean?
Assuming you can force people to keep commitments ignores past human behavior.
In plain terms
You cannot make people keep commitments if they haven't before.
What can you take from it?
Do not rely on promises alone for accountability.

Where it applies

  • contracts
  • leadership
  • relationships

Putting it to work

  • verify track records
  • plan for failure

Questions to consider

  • Can you really enforce this?
  • What is their track record?

Another view

Some people may change their behavior under new circumstances.

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