“One cannot govern with ‘buts’.”
- November 22, 1890 – November 9, 1970
- French
- Military Leader, Statesman, President of France, Founder of the Fifth Republic
table of contents
Quote
“One cannot govern with ‘buts’.”
Explanation
This concise and decisive statement by Charles de Gaulle highlights his belief in clarity, conviction, and the dangers of hesitation in leadership. The word “but” often introduces doubt, compromise, or excuse, and de Gaulle saw such indecisiveness as fatal to effective governance. To govern, in his view, requires firm choices and the courage to stand by them, not constant qualifications or reversals that erode authority and direction.
Throughout his career, de Gaulle demonstrated this principle by taking bold, often controversial actions—whether it was leading the Free French in defiance of Nazi occupation, asserting France’s independence from NATO, or guiding the country through constitutional reform. He believed that strong leadership means taking responsibility, not hiding behind caveats or endless deliberation. The absence of “buts” in decision-making reflects his demand for decisiveness, consistency, and moral clarity.
In modern leadership, this quote remains a warning against political ambiguity and excessive caution. In an age where leaders may attempt to appease all sides, de Gaulle’s words call for principled firmness, especially when critical decisions must be made. “One cannot govern with ‘buts’” reminds us that leadership requires the will to choose—and the resolve to follow through, without retreat into hesitation.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
