“In ancient China the people wanted security against the barbaric hordes to the north, so they built the great wall. It was so high they believed no one could climb over it and so thick nothing could break it down. They settled back to enjoy their security. During the first hundred years of the wall’s existence, China was invaded three times. Not once did the barbaric hordes break down the wall or climb over it. Each time they bribed a gatekeeper and then marched right through the gates. The Chinese were so busy relying on the walls of stone that they forgot to teach integrity to their children.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“The reality is that you will never get much done unless you go ahead and do it before you are ready.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“People who lead for selfish reasons seek… Power: They love control and will continue to add value to themselves by reducing the value of others. Position: Titles are their ego food. They continually make sure that others feel their authority and know their rights as a leader. Money: They will use people and sell themselves for financial gain. Prestige: Their looking good is more important to them than their being and doing good.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“The company owner doesn't need to win. The best idea does.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“The bottom line in leadership isn't how far we advance ourselves but how far we advance others.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“There comes a special moment in everyone’s life, a moment for which that person was born.… When he seizes it… it is his finest hour.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“Trying to get the right person in the right job can take a lot of time and energy. Let’s face it. Isn’t it easier for a leader to just put people where it is most convenient and get on with the work? Once again, this is an area where leaders’ desire for action works against them.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“Everything begins with a decision. Then, we have to manage that decision for the rest of your life.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“It doesn’t matter how much milk you spill as long as you don’t lose your cow!”
―
John C. Maxwell
“Great minds have purposes; others have wishes. Little minds are subdued by misfortunes; but great minds rise above them.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“People must have affirmation and praise in order to maintain a high level of performance. Withholding negative or critical comments is not nearly as important as giving positive input through compliments and praise.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“I will build a motorcar for the multitude. It will be large enough for the family but small enough for the individual to run and care for. It will be constructed of the best materials, by the best men to be hired, after the simplest designs that modern engineering can devise. But it will be so low in price that no man making a good salary will be unable to own one—and enjoy with his family the blessings of hours of pleasure in God’s great open spaces.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“Tend to the people, and they will tend to the business.”
―
John C. Maxwell
“When you develop confidence, those around you—friends, family, and associates—will increase in their own confidence levels. Confidence breeds confidence.”
―
John C. Maxwell
