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About this quote

What does it mean?
If force is necessary, it must be decisive; hesitation or half-measures are unacceptable.
In plain terms
Do not fight if you can avoid it, but if you must, fight hard.
What can you take from it?
Avoid conflict when possible, but act decisively when necessary.

Where it applies

  • self defense
  • negotiation
  • standing up for principles

Putting it to work

  • choose battles wisely
  • act with conviction

Questions to consider

  • When is force justified?
  • How do you show resolve?

Another view

Sometimes measured force is more effective than overwhelming force.

More from Theodore Roosevelt

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  2. There are good men and bad men of all nationalities, creeds and colors; and if this world of ours is ever to become what we hope some day it may become, it mus…

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  3. The reactionary is always willing to take a progressive attitude on any issue that is dead.

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