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In late 1989, the profound transformation that took place in this country brought me here to Prague Castle. It all happened so suddenly that I did not even have time to properly consider whether or not I was up to the task, and I was sincerely of the opinion that I would just take it on for a few months until the first free elections. Clearly, things turned out quite differently: I have now been here for more than thirteen years, if we discount the short break in the latter half of 1992.

Vaclav Havel#108

PowerLeadershipDemocracyHistoryTime

About this quote

What does it mean?
The transformation to democracy brought the speaker to power unexpectedly, leading to a much longer tenure than planned.
In plain terms
He planned to lead for a few months, but stayed thirteen years due to circumstances.
What can you take from it?
Political roles often evolve unpredictably.

Where it applies

  • political careers
  • revolutionary leadership
  • historical moments

Putting it to work

  • accept unexpected roles
  • adapt to changing needs

Questions to consider

  • When do leaders plan to step down?
  • How do circumstances override plans?

Another view

Long tenures can sometimes lead to stagnation.

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  3. It logically follows that, in today's multicultural world, the truly reliable path to coexistence, to peaceful coexistence and creative cooperation, must start…

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