First organize the inner, then organize the outer ... First organize the great, then organize the small. First organize yourself, and then organize others.
Interpretation
Prioritizing internal orderliness is essential before addressing external tasks. Self-organization lays the groundwork for effectively organizing others.
This quote by Zhuge Liang emphasizes the importance of internal organization before tackling external challenges. It suggests that true leadership and effectiveness stem from a well-structured personal foundation; only after achieving self-organization can one successfully organize others and broader tasks. By addressing both the significant and the minor elements systematically, one can create a cohesive and efficient environment.
In practice
During a leadership seminar, this quote can be used to highlight the importance of personal development in becoming an effective leader.
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To overcome the intelligent by folly is contrary to the natural order of things; to overcome the foolish by intelligence is in accord with the natural order. To overcome the intelligent by intelligence, however, is a matter of opportunity.
Strength is but one aspect of power.
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Rule a kingdom as though you were cooking a small fish - don't overdo it.
Eliminate numerical quotas, including Management by Objectives.
Thus, then, on the night of the tenth of May, at the outset of this mighty battle, I acquired the chief power in the State, which henceforth I wielded in ever-growing measure for five years and three months of world war, at the end of which time, all our enemies having surrendered unconditionally or being about to do so, I was immediately dismissed by the British electorate from all further conduct of their affairs.
We need business leaders who have a respect for technical issues even if they don't have technical backgrounds. In a lot of U.S. industries, including cars and even computers, many managers don't think of technology as a core competency, and this attitude leads them to farm out technical issues.
Prudence dictates that there should be a balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region.
While their service is ending, our responsibility is just beginning!
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