“The best way to keep one’s word is not to give it.”
- August 15, 1769 – May 5, 1821
- French of Italian descent
- French military officer and emperor
- Reorganized Europe after the French Revolution and built the foundations of the legal system in modern Europe
Quote
“The best way to keep one’s word is not to give it.”
Explanation
Napoleon Bonaparte’s statement here reflects a pragmatic approach to promises and commitments. By suggesting that the surest way to keep one’s word is to avoid giving it in the first place, he implies that restraint and discretion in making promises can prevent the risk of breaking them. Napoleon understood that circumstances can change, and unforeseen challenges might make it difficult to uphold commitments. By limiting promises to only what one is certain to fulfill, he believed one could protect their integrity and credibility.
This idea resonates in contexts where promises carry significant weight, such as in leadership, personal relationships, and business. Individuals who overpromise may end up disappointing others or straining their credibility if they fail to deliver. In contrast, those who are careful with their commitments build a reputation for reliability, as they ensure they can fulfill what they promise. For example, a manager who is cautious about promising outcomes builds trust by consistently meeting expectations, while one who overcommits risks eroding team confidence.
Napoleon’s insight encourages us to be mindful and realistic about our commitments, valuing quality over quantity in our promises. It serves as a reminder to commit only to what we can realistically achieve, thus preserving our integrity and avoiding potential disappointment. By setting thoughtful boundaries on our promises, we demonstrate a balanced approach to accountability and trustworthiness.
