One step at a time - best strategy for life.

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Dear Readers,

Thank you for coming here!

“One step at a time” might seem slow and boring, but it is probably the best strategy for life.

A great example is Chester W. Nimitz, the famous admiral who led the US Pacific fleet from the defeat in Pearl Harbor to the ultimate victory in World War 2.

He had the opportunities to “fly” to another path of life and to higher positions, but he said “No”:

1. He said “No” to money. In 1915, Captain Nimitz lived in a small apartment with his wife and two little kids, earning a monthly salary of USD 288. He was offered USD 25k per year by a private company, who was willing to up the stake if Nimitz asked. Nimitz said No because he knew he wanted to stay in the Navy.
2. He said “No” to promotion. Early 1941, Nimitz was offered to command the US Pacific fleet. That would promote him to Admiral, by-passing 50+ of his “superiors” in rank. He said No because he knew that would upset them and ultimately affect his ability to perform the job.

Photo by Jill Heyer on Unsplash

I have to say these are very hard to resist, at least for me.

But if Nimitz had accepted the first opportunity, he might have lived as a rich man. But he would have never got the opportunity to command the Pacific fleet.

If he had accepted the second opportunity, Pearl Harbor could have happened during his tenure. And he would have lost the opportunity to command the fleet for the battles to come.

By rejecting the opportunities and just focusing on doing his job, Nimitz is remembered in history.

 

Till next time!