It is often possible to decide the issue of a battle merely by making an unexpected shift of one's main weight.
Erwin RommelRead
The commander must be at constant pains to keep his troops abreast of all the latest tactical experience and developments, and must insist on their practical application. He must see to it that his subordinates are trained in accordance with the latest requirements. The best form of welfare for the troops is first-class training, for this saves unnecessary casualties.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Effective leadership involves continuous training and adaptation to maintain a competitive edge and ensure the safety of the team.
This quote emphasizes the importance of ongoing education and training in a leadership role. It suggests that a leader, particularly in military contexts, should constantly update their team on new tactics and ensure that everyone is properly trained according to current standards. This proactive approach not only enhances the team's effectiveness but also minimizes risk, as well-trained personnel are likely to face fewer dangers in challenging situations.
Themes
LeadershipTrainingTacticsWelfareExperience
In practice
Example use cases
In a military briefing to stress the importance of staying updated on strategies.
More from Erwin Rommel
All quotes →One must not judge everyone in the world by his qualities as a soldier: otherwise we should have no civilization.
Erwin RommelRead
War makes extremely heavy demands on the soldier's strength and nerves. For this reason, make heavy demands on your men in peacetime exercises.
Erwin RommelRead
Sweat saves blood, blood saves lives, but brains saves both.
Erwin RommelRead
Be an example to your men, in your duty and in private life. Never spare yourself, and let the troops see that you don't in your endurance of fatigue and privation. Always be tactful and well-mannered and teach your subordinates to do the same. Avoid excessive sharpness or harshness of voice, which usually indicates the man who has shortcomings of his own to hide.
Erwin RommelRead
Training errors are recorded on paper. Tactical errors are etched in stone.
Erwin RommelRead
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