"L'ennemi a son mot à dire"

The essence of the quote is simple: no matter how well you plan, the other side always has a say in the outcome. It’s a reminder that your strategies and actions aren’t happening in a vacuum. There are always external factors—often other people—who can influence the situation and possibly disrupt your plans.

This phrase has its roots in military strategy. It’s a common saying among soldiers and commanders, emphasizing the reality that the opposition, the "enemy," isn’t a passive element. They will adapt, counter, and possibly surprise you. So, it’s a reminder to stay flexible and ready for the unexpected.

Imagine you’re planning a big business presentation. You’ve rehearsed your speech, fine-tuned your slides, and you’re feeling confident. But the meeting includes a tough crowd, possibly with their own agendas or opinions. You might face unexpected questions or resistance. That’s the enemy having a vote. They’re part of the equation, and their reactions can change the outcome.

To apply this wisdom, you need to always anticipate and prepare for the unexpected. Think about different scenarios—what if someone disagrees with your main point? What if you get a technical glitch? Preparing for these possibilities can help you stay calm and handle surprises smoothly. Flexibility is key. Have a plan B (and C), and be ready to pivot if things don’t go as planned.

Let’s dive into a real-life scenario. Picture this: Sarah, an event planner, is organizing a huge outdoor wedding. She’s got everything nailed down—the caterers are set, the band is booked, and the decorations are on point. But there’s one thing she can’t control: the weather. On the wedding day, dark clouds roll in, and it starts to pour. The enemy gets a vote.

However, Sarah, being the seasoned pro she is, had a backup plan. She quickly arranges for tents to be set up, moves some activities indoors, and ensures everyone stays dry and the celebration continues. Because she anticipated possible disruptions, she handles the situation like a champ.

For advice on applying this concept: always plan with the awareness that external factors can and will intervene. Whether you’re working on a project, planning an event, or even just organizing your day—ask yourself, "What could go wrong?" and "How can I prepare for that?" This practice doesn’t mean being pessimistic; it’s about being realistic and adaptable.

Now, imagine you’re a student gearing up for finals. You’ve studied hard, but you know the exam questions can be unpredictable. You can’t control which questions come up—that’s the exam having a vote. So, what do you do? You prepare as thoroughly as possible, covering all topics and being ready for different types of questions. And if you face a particularly tough question? You stay calm, think through it, and remember you’ve prepared for this.

In essence, keeping this idea in mind helps you stay grounded and resilient. It’s about recognizing that life is full of variables beyond your control, and the best you can do is prepare, adapt, and keep moving forward. It’s these moments that often teach us the most, shaping how we handle future challenges. So, next time you’re plotting your next big move, remember: the enemy gets a vote. Be ready to roll with the punches.