Observing many companies in action, I am unable to point to a single instance in which stunning results were gotten without the active and personal leadership of the upper managers.
Joseph M. JuranRead
Goal setting has traditionally been based on past performance. This practice has tended to perpetuate the sins of the past.
Interpretation
Goal setting should focus on future possibilities instead of being limited by past performances.
In this quote, Joseph M. Juran highlights the limitations of traditional goal setting approaches that rely heavily on past performance metrics. He suggests that such methods can inhibit progress and perpetuate previous failures, urging individuals and organizations to set goals that envision a better future rather than being constrained by historical shortcomings.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about innovation and progress.
Remember, no effort that we make to attain something beautiful is ever lost.
I think you have to try and fail, because failure gets you closer to what you're good at.
Enthusiasm needs to be effective enthusiasm. We must distinguish between the contribution and enthusiasm of the cheerleader and the enthusiasm of the player. While cheerleaders serve an important purpose, the real contest involves players on the field or on the court of life. We must not go through life acting only as enthusiastic cheerleaders available for hire; we must be anxiously and personally engaged.
If we're going to bring out the best in people, we, too, need to sow seeds of encouragement.
Don't bunt. Aim out of the ball park. Aim for the company of immortals.
Inside of a ring or out, ain't nothing wrong with going down. It's staying down that's wrong.
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