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
There is no contest between the company that buys the grudging compliance of its work force and the company that enjoys the enterprising participation of its employees
Ricardo SemlerRead
With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy.
Sun TzuRead
What to an outsider will be no more than the vigorous presentation of a conviction, to an employee may be the manifestation of a determination which it is not safe to thwart.
Learned HandRead
Authority is granted to people who are perceived as authoring their own words, their own actions, their own lives, rather than playing a scripted role at great remove from their own hearts.
Parker J. PalmerRead
All coaching is, is taking a player where he can't take himself.
Bill MccartneyRead
I never had a policy; I have just tried to do my very best each and every day.
Abraham LincolnRead