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About this quote

What does it mean?
Jackson claims his men excel at defending positions even if offense sometimes fails.
In plain terms
His soldiers may fail attacking but never fail defending.
What can you take from it?
Defense can be a strength even when offense is not.

Where it applies

  • holding ground
  • assessing team skills

Putting it to work

  • focus on defensive strengths
  • acknowledge mixed performance

Questions to consider

  • What is your team's strongest trait?
  • When does defense win?

Another view

Overvaluing defense may prevent necessary offensive action.

More from Thomas Jackson

  1. Who could not conquer with such troops as these?

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  2. I see from the number of physicians that you think my condition dangerous, but I thank God, if it is His will, that I am ready to go. ... It is the Lord's Day;…

    Permalink to quote #13
  3. The only true rule for cavalry is to follow the enemy as long as he retreats.

    Permalink to quote #10

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