“He who hesitates is lost.” Delaying action can lead to missed opportunities or failure.
“Ok, let’s go”
D-Day Landings (June 6, 1944). General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s decision to launch the Allied invasion of Normandy was made under immense pressure, with weather and intelligence uncertainties. Despite imperfect information, Eisenhower famously gave the go-ahead with the words “OK, let’s go,” understanding that waiting for perfect conditions could mean missing the opportunity entirely. The bold, timely decision was crucial to the success of the operation and is often cited as a defining example of American decisiveness and willingness to act quickly.
The Louisiana Purchase (1803)
The Louisiana Purchase (1803). President Thomas Jefferson authorized the purchase of the Louisiana Territory from France in a remarkably short period, despite constitutional uncertainties and lack of time for full deliberation. The decision to act quickly doubled the size of the United States and is celebrated as a bold, pragmatic move-valuing speed and opportunity over perfect legal clarity.
Manifest Destiny
Manifest Destiny and the Mexican-American War (1846–1848). President James K. Polk’s administration pursued rapid territorial expansion under the banner of “Manifest Destiny.” Polk pressed for quick action in diplomatic and military disputes, favoring decisive moves to secure territory rather than protracted negotiations. This approach led to the swift annexation of vast western lands, reflecting the American preference for speed and adaptability in decision-making.
Blink
Blink by Malcolm Gladwell. This influential non-fiction book explores the power of snap judgments and rapid decision-making. Gladwell argues that some of the best decisions are made in an instant, based on intuition and limited information, rather than prolonged analysis. The book is filled with real-life stories where quick thinking leads to effective outcomes, capturing the American preference for speed over perfection.
cheese
Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson. This business fable is about adapting quickly to change. The characters who succeed are those who make fast decisions and act, rather than waiting for perfect information or circumstances. The story is widely used in American business to encourage employees to embrace quick, adaptive decision-making.
Bad Blood
Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou. This investigative account of the Theranos scandal highlights how rapid, sometimes reckless, decision-making is embedded in American startup culture. Executives and investors often made decisions quickly to seize opportunities, sometimes at the expense of thoroughness. The book underscores both the benefits and dangers of the “move fast, fix later” approach.
“Time is money”
“Time is money.” Time wasted is opportunity lost; acting quickly is essential for success.
“Strike while the iron is hot.”
“Strike while the iron is hot.” Take action at the right moment-don’t wait, or you might miss your chance.