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Those who enjoy responsibility usually get it; those who merely like exercising authority usually lose it.
Malcolm Forbes
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Interpretation

What this quote means

People who take on responsibility are often given more, while those who seek power for its own sake may find it slipping away.

This quote by Malcolm Forbes highlights the distinction between genuine leadership and mere authority. It suggests that true leaders who embrace responsibility are more likely to be trusted and rewarded with greater responsibilities, while those who only desire to exercise control without any accountability tend to lose their influence and position over time.

Themes

ResponsibilityLeadershipAuthorityInfluenceTrust

In practice

Example use cases

In a business meeting discussing promotions, this quote could be used to encourage team members to take on more responsibilities.

More from Malcolm Forbes

Over the years, I've evolved a somewhat heretical but time-and mind-saving approach to books, articles, editorials that deal with weighty matters. More often than not, by beginning at the end and contemplating the conclusions, one can determine if it's worth going through the whole to get there.
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To live long and achieve happiness, cultivate the art of radiating happiness.
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The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open one.
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If you never budge, don't expect a push.
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It's never a good deal when only one party thinks it is.
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How would you know what happy is if you've never been otherwise.
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