It's said that a wise person learns from his mistakes. A wiser one learns from others' mistakes. But the wisest person of all learns from others's successes.
John C. MaxwellRead
In most cases, those who want power probably shouldn't have it, those who enjoy it probably do so for the wrong reasons, and those who want most to hold on to it don't understand that it's only temporary.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The desire for power often reveals the unfitness for it, while those who cling to it misunderstand its transient nature.
This quote by John C. Maxwell highlights the paradox of power dynamics. It suggests that individuals who seek power are often not the best candidates for it because their motivations may be flawed. Additionally, those who derive joy from power might prioritize personal gain over collective good. Finally, the quote emphasizes that power is not a permanent state; those who seek to hold on to it often fail to grasp its fleeting nature, which can lead to mismanagement and loss.
Themes
PowerLeadershipResponsibilityTemporaryMotivation
In practice
Example use cases
In a leadership seminar discussing the ethical responsibilities of leaders.
More from John C. Maxwell
All quotes βCourage and initiative come when you understand your purpose in life.
John C. MaxwellRead
Integrity is important in building relationships. And is the foundation upon which many other qualities for success are built, such as respect, dignity, and trust.
John C. MaxwellRead
Attitude is the first quality that marks the successful man. If he has a positive attitude and is a positive thinker, who likes challenges and difficult situations, then he has half his success achieved.
John C. MaxwellRead
Big-picture thinkers broaden their outlook by striving to learn from every experience. They don't rest on their successes, they learn from them.
John C. MaxwellRead
A great leader's courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.
John C. MaxwellRead
Similar quotes
Business leaders who openly acknowledge people's concerns about becoming obsolete and who invest resources in workers' growth can help create a nation of learners - and perhaps resolve some of the political chaos that's bubbling around us.
Carol S. DweckRead
Most executives I know are so action-oriented, or action-addicted, that time for reflection is the first casualty of their success.
Margaret HeffernanRead
The Presidency, even to the most experienced politicians, is no bed of roses; and [Zachary] Taylor like others, found thorns within it. No human being can fill that station and escape censure.
Abraham LincolnRead
Motivate them, train them, care about them, and make winners out of them... they'll treat the customers right. And if customers are treated right, they'll come back.
J. Willard MarriottRead
Oh, I am heartily tired of hearing about what Lee is going to do. Some of you always seem to think he is suddenly going to turn a double somersault, and land in our rear and on both of our flanks at the same time. Go back to your command, and try to think what are we going to do ourselves, instead of what Lee is going to do.
Ulysses S. GrantRead
One of the problems in the biotech world is the lack of women in leadership roles, and I'd like to see that change by walking the walk.
Jennifer DoudnaRead