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"Les bons leaders ne trouvent pas d'excuses Ils trouvent plutôt un moyen d'y parvenir"

Jocko Willink
Jocko Willink Author, Podcaster, Retired Navy SEAL
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Quote meaning
Good leaders don’t hide behind excuses. They take responsibility and find ways to make things happen. At its core, this idea is about accountability and problem-solving. Leaders who excel don't dwell on why something can't be done. They focus their energy on how to accomplish the task, no matter the obstacles.

Let's go back a bit in history to understand this better. Think about Winston Churchill during World War II. The odds were stacked against Britain, but instead of giving in to despair, Churchill rallied his nation with his unyielding resolve. His famous speeches and unshakeable determination inspired a whole country to keep fighting. He didn’t waste time blaming others or making excuses about the tough situation. He found ways to keep morale high and strategize effectively. It’s a classic example of leadership in the face of adversity.

Now, picture something more contemporary. Imagine a project manager named Lisa. She's in charge of launching a new product, but halfway through, her key supplier falls through. Instead of throwing up her hands and saying, "Well, there’s nothing we can do now," she dives into action. She contacts alternative suppliers, rearranges the project timeline, and even reallocates her team’s responsibilities to stay on track. Her team sees her commitment and rallies behind her. They trust her because she doesn't make excuses; she makes things happen.

So how can you use this wisdom in your own life? Start by embracing challenges. When you hit a roadblock, don't waste time lamenting over why it happened. Instead, ask yourself, "What can I do about it?" This shift in mindset—from why to how—can be incredibly powerful. It puts you in control and keeps you moving forward.

Think about your own experiences. Let's say you’re organizing a family reunion. You’ve booked the venue, but the caterer cancels last minute. It's easy to panic or blame someone else. But instead, you roll up your sleeves and start searching for other caterers. Maybe you even decide to turn the event into a potluck, asking family members to bring their favorite dishes. It might not be what you originally planned, but it gets the job done—and probably brings a unique, personal touch to the reunion.

Leaders who adopt this mindset inspire those around them. They create an environment where problems are seen as opportunities to innovate and grow. It’s not just about getting the job done, but about setting an example. People feel more motivated and confident when they see their leaders taking charge and finding solutions.

So next time you face a challenge, remember: good leaders find a way. They don’t sit around making excuses. They get creative, stay positive, and figure out how to make things work. By doing this, not only will you achieve your goals, but you’ll also earn the respect and admiration of those around you. And that’s what real leadership is all about.
Related tags
Accountability Action-oriented Determination Initiative Leadership Motivation Perseverance Problem-solving Responsibility Success
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