"There is small risk a general will be regarded with contempt by those he leads, if, whatever he may have to preach, he shows himself best able to perform"
- Xenophon
About this Quote
This quote by Xenophon speaks with the value of leading by example. It suggests that if a leader has the ability to show their own capabilities, they will be respected by those they lead. This is because it reveals that the leader can what they are asking of their followers. It likewise implies that if a leader is unable to demonstrate their own capabilities, they will be consulted with contempt. This is due to the fact that it recommends that the leader is asking their fans to do something that they themselves are unable to do. Eventually, this quote suggests that a leader should have the ability to show their own capabilities in order to be appreciated by those they lead.
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations. Expect the best of yourself, and then do what is necessary to make it a reality"
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
