Great leaders must be constantly aware of threats to their endeavor, and this does not stop when success is achieved. Success can lead to either overcautiousness or overconfidence, and both are dangerous.
Overcautiousness results in paranoia. The pioneer does not want to mess anything up, so he chooses to ride the current wave of success. Unfortunately, when the wave inevitably runs its course, he crashes with it.
Overconfidence results in blindness. The organization overreaches, extending beyond its resources and strengths, thereby putting itself in a vulnerable position. In trying to succeed too quickly, the organization is overcome by challenges bigger than it is equipped to handle.
Beware each of these perils. Those tempted to sit still must find the courage to act! Failure is always a possibility, but the only thing that guarantees failure is fear of failure. Mistakes due to inaction often engender regrets greater than those due to wrong actions.
Those tempted to ignore their weaknesses must open their eyes and face the reality of their situation. It is not just action, but disciplined action that separates the best from the rest.
