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About this quote

What does it mean?
A true leader acts autonomously and uses others as instruments rather than being used himself.
In plain terms
Real leaders use tools; they are not tools themselves.
What can you take from it?
Lead others instead of following orders.

Where it applies

  • business management
  • personal development
  • career strategy

Putting it to work

  • take initiative
  • delegate tasks
  • set vision

Questions to consider

  • Do you lead or follow?
  • Who uses you?

Another view

This view may justify exploiting others as mere tools.

More from Theodore Dreiser

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